by Nurat Uthman
The Lagos State Government, in collaboration with the Lagos Urban Development Initiative (LUDI) and other stakeholders, will observe its annual Car-Free Day on Sunday, September 22, 2024.
The initiative aims to encourage Lagos residents to set aside their vehicles for the day and embrace Non-Motorised Transport (NMT) options, such as cycling and walking.
According to a statement from the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, the event seeks to promote active and inclusive transport methods, reduce environmental pollution, and improve public health through increased physical activity.
“Embrace active and inclusive means of transport, such as cycling and walking, known as Non-Motorised Transport (NMT),” the statement urged.
Car-Free Day is celebrated globally every September 22, with some countries observing it on different dates by closing streets and encouraging car-free travel.
This year’s Lagos event is particularly timely as it coincides with the ongoing fuel price hike, which has already seen a reduction in the number of vehicles on the roads
Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, emphasized the significance of NMT in promoting both environmental and personal health.
“Beyond reducing environmental pollution, it addresses the detrimental effects of insufficient physical activity on health,” Osiyemi noted.
The World Health Organization (WHO) identifies physical inactivity as the fourth leading risk factor for global mortality, responsible for 6% of global deaths.
By promoting non-motorised transport, the initiative aims to tackle this issue, encouraging people of all ages and abilities to lead more active lifestyles.
In addition to encouraging sustainable transport, the event will serve as an educational platform to raise awareness about the benefits of environmental health and promote alternatives to private cars, including improved public transportation systems.
The Car-Free Day activities will be held at Ahmadu Bello Way, where hundreds of participants are expected to gather for a day filled with engaging events, including cycling, cycling training, competitions, skating, stretches, music, and dance.
The Lagos State Ministry of Transportation will partner with various Ministries, Departments, Agencies, and LUDI to ensure a successful celebration, spotlighting the environmental and health benefits of active transportation.
