Youth brings UNGRSW to Nigeria

For the 7th UN Global Road Safety Week, Youth Coalition Youth Leadership Board Member and GreenLight Initiative Executive Director Simon Patrick Obi led his team of youth leaders to pay an advocacy visit to the Unit Commander of the Central Business District of Abuja, Federal Road Safety Corps FCT. 

During the meeting, Simon and his team talked about the theme of this year’s UNGRSW, #RethinkMobility. They spoke about the necessity to shift from car-centric societies to people-centric ones. They spoke about how shifting the mindset and priority to active and more sustainable modes of transportation like walking, cycling, and taking public transport can result in safer, cleaner, healthier, and more livable cities. 

As a result, Assistant Corps Commander Imrana Lamba Ibrahim, committed to enforcing 30 km/h speed limits in Abuja and becoming an ally in promoting walking, cycling, and public transport as modes of travel in the city. 

Simon also met with the Transportation Secretary of Nigeria Hon. Abdullahi Candido and the entire board of directors of the Transport Secretariat of the Federal Capital Territory Administration of Abuja. 

Similarly, Simon talked about the theme of the UNGRSW and why the need to #RethinkMobility is not just important but crucial. He presented key points on how road safety connects with creating more livable cities and shared the Youth Coalition’s SDG 11 Policy Brief. He encouraged the directors to use the document as a resource material to design and develop roads and cities in the city of Abuja. 

Following the discussion, Secretary Candido also committed to promoting and creating a more sustainable transport system that encourages and prioritizes a shift from driving to walking, cycling, and taking public transportation. 

GreenLight Initiative also released a press release for UNGRSW that calls on the local and national governments to prioritize walking, cycling, and public transport in Nigeria. 

“The benefits of sustainable transport are clear. Walking and cycling not only promote physical activity and reduce the risk of chronic diseases, but they also reduce traffic congestion and air pollution, leading to improved public health and a cleaner environment. Additionally, investing in public transport can improve access to essential services and promote economic growth.” - GreenLight Initiative