LAGOS – The Lagos State Government has said that it would incorporate infrastructure for Non-Motorised Transport (NMT) in its road planning and designing.
Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, the Commissioner for Transportation, Lagos State, gave this assurance recently in Lagos during the commemoration of this year’s World Car-Free Day, which held in the state.
World Car-Free Day holds every September 23. It is a reminder of how humanity can help promote the culture of sustainable healthy living and wellbeing by engaging in simple basic things like cultivating active mobility.
According to Osiyemi, it was necessary for the residents of the state to embrace active mobility, brisk walking or cycling, stressing that this had a huge impact on our health and wellbeing.
He expressed delight with the state’s collaboration with the Lagos Urban Development Initiatives (LUDI) for the 2024 edition of the programme.
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He pointed out that by leaving the cars at home, residents were taking significant steps towards reducing carbon emission, improve air quality and create safer livable spaces for all.
He added: “The day is not just giving the cars a rest, but about reimagining our landscapes and enjoying the simple pleasures of walking, cycling and using public transport and connecting more with our neighbours.
“Did you know that just 11 minutes of moderate physical activity, such as brisk walking or cycling can lower the risk of an early death and reduce the risk of developing heart and circulatory diseases?
“It is amazing how small changes can have such a big impact on our health. As we walk, cycle, and play in our car-free streets, let us take a moment to appreciate the positive impact we can make.”
He posited that beyond marking the event yearly, residents should also seize the opportunity to reflect on how they could incorporate these practices into their daily lives.
The commissioner declared that every step taken was a step towards a greener and healthier future, urging everyone to use this opportunity to reflect on how they could incorporate these practices into their daily lives, making sustainable choices that benefitted the planet and communities.
