The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), RS11.12 Ilesa Unit Command, on Wednesday joined the rest of the world to commemorate the 8th edition of the United Nations World Bicycle Day with a cycling rally and public awareness campaign aimed at promoting safer, healthier, and environmentally friendly transportation.
The event, held under the theme "Boosting Urban Life with the Bicycle," was organized in line with the directive of the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, as part of efforts to encourage cycling as a sustainable means of transportation and to create awareness about its numerous social, economic, and environmental benefits.
The cycling exercise commenced at Irojo Roundabout in Ilesa and proceeded through Sabo Junction, drawing the attention of residents, commercial transport operators, and other road users who watched and applauded participants along the route.
Leading the exercise was the Unit Commander, Assistant Corps Commander (ACC) Bashir A. Jimoh, accompanied by officers, marshals, and officials of the command. The event also attracted the participation of members of the public, including prominent businessman Mr. Ajiboye Adetunji and members of the Irojo Commercial Motorcycle (Okada) Park, who joined the rally in solidarity with the FRSC.
Speaking during the event at Irojo Roundabout, ACC Jimoh highlighted the significance of World Bicycle Day and stressed the need to embrace cycling as a practical solution to many urban challenges.
According to him, bicycles remain one of the most affordable, reliable, environmentally sustainable, and socially inclusive means of transportation available today.
He noted that rapid urbanization has led to increased traffic congestion, environmental pollution, rising transportation costs, and health-related challenges, adding that cycling offers a viable alternative capable of reducing dependence on motor vehicles while promoting physical fitness and cleaner environments.
The Unit Commander also called on road users to respect the rights of cyclists, obey traffic regulations, and promote a culture of road sharing. He further urged government authorities, urban planners, and relevant stakeholders to support the development of bicycle-friendly infrastructure across communities.
Cyclists were equally encouraged to prioritize safety by wearing protective gear and complying with established traffic rules at all times.
Participants at the event commended the FRSC for the initiative, describing the campaign as timely and impactful. Several residents expressed surprise at learning about the global significance of World Bicycle Day and applauded the Corps for raising awareness about the health, economic, and environmental benefits associated with cycling.
Some participants also pledged to support the campaign by encouraging cycling within their communities and considering bicycles as an alternative mode of transportation.
As part of efforts to broaden the campaign's reach, the awareness exercise was extended to the University of Ilesa, where students, staff, and members of the university community were sensitized on the importance of cycling as a healthy, economical, and environmentally friendly means of transportation.
The event concluded peacefully and recorded an impressive turnout of officers, marshals, and members of the public. The cycling rally served as a platform for promoting road safety, environmental sustainability, healthy living, and public engagement within the Ilesa community.
Observers described the programme as a successful demonstration of the FRSC's commitment to public enlightenment and sustainable transportation advocacy.
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