As the world imbibes bicycles as a mode of transportation that reflects international best practices, the Ogun State Government says it is ready to create bicycle routes, to allow riders move freely and safely on the roads.         Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi disclosed this during a cycling rally, held in commemoration of the World Bicycle Day, saying bicycles are non-carbon emission means of transportation, while engaging in any activity associated with it makes one healthy, physically fit, prolongs life expectancy and guards against cardiovascular diseases.

           Highlighting the essence of the Day, Mr. Talabi stated that it was to create awareness for the matured populace and the younger ones, saying ‘’the State Ministry of Transportation will create a very viable cycling route, and I am sure that it will do this within a couple of months, which can be small fractions mapped out from the road to encourage cycling in our dear State”.

          “In our environment, people pay more attention to motorised transportation, but it is necessary to create awareness on the importance of embracing cycling. A lot of cycling entities are coming into the State, which is making the enlightenment get better with a higher number of participants compared to the previous years.

          Also speaking, Commissioner for Transportation, Engr. Gbenga Dairo, described Abeokuta as a world city, being one of the 20 future cities across the world, as recognised by the United Kingdom, which makes the city a global one.

          Dairo said the State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has been decisive in ensuring that Abeokuta is among the places of choice for tourists, investors, and visitors to live, work and play.

          “We must benchmark all our activities including cycling to global best practices. Let us all, both young and old embrace it. We all went out on a cycling rally today to set out an example worthy of emulation as it is safe and encourages well-living”, Dairo said. 

          He appreciated the Federal Road Safety Corps and other supporters for championing the exercise.

          Earlier in his address, the Sector Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Mr. Ahmed Umar assured the agency’s commitment to promoting every form of safe transportation by all categories of road users including cyclists, saying this necessitated the sustained partnership with the Cycling Federation of Nigeria and other partners for the annual commemoration of the World Bicycle Day.

          Umar urged schools, social associations and individuals to take up cycling as a fitness and recreational activity.