The Kaduna sector commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Zubairu Mato, said Nigerians, amongst other third-world countries, needed attitudinal change to encourage cycling for better health.

Mr Mato said this to journalists on Saturday in Kaduna while cycling within the state’s metropolis to commemorate the World Bicycle Day celebration.

He noted that in third-world countries, cyclists were considered poor, as in the case of Nigeria.

“Attitudinal change has to be encouraged in third world countries so that people who are cycling are not considered as poor.

“In developed nations, people have embraced cycling, especially for short distances,” he said.

He also noted that the 72nd session of the United Nations General Assembly in April 2018 acknowledged bicycles’ uniqueness, longevity and versatility.

Mr Mato added that the bicycle, which had been in use for two centuries, was a simple, affordable, reliable, clean and environmentally fit and sustainable means of transformation, fostering environmental stewardship and health.

He explained that many health challenges could be avoided if, once in a while, people took the time to cycle.

The sector commander further stressed that as much as cycling should be encouraged, safety must be recognised.

He mentioned safety measures such as wearing helmets, strict compliance with road traffic rules/ regulations and observing lane discipline while cycling.

He encouraged the government at all levels to construct roads designed with bicycle lanes to enhance the safety of cyclists.

The sector commander also urged the government to provide bicycle parking racks at ministries and parastatals for cyclists to have places to keep their bicycles safe.

(NAN)