Life in the diaspora: Pedestrians, cyclists and the right of way
By Mary Opii
Getting around in the UK teaches Nigerians that the road is not designed for cars alone. Pedestrians and cyclists are given strong legal and social protection, and understanding this hierarchy of road users becomes an important part of everyday life in the diaspora. For Nigerians arriving from places where traffic is often negotiated through eye contact, speed, and courage, this adjustment can feel unsettling at first.
In the UK, pedestrians are prioritised. Zebra crossings are taken seriously, and drivers are expected to stop the moment someone steps onto the crossing. Even at junctions without traffic lights, pedestrians often have the right of way. When I first arrived, this took a lot of getting used to. I remember standing at a zebra crossing, hesitating even though the road was clear. A car approaching slowed down and stopped completely, waiting for me to cross. I still hesitated, unsure if it was truly safe. The driver remained patient, gesturing for me to go. That moment stayed with me because it felt almost unreal. Back home, that kind of pause could have been dangerous.
Cyclists are also treated with a level of respect that surprises many of us Nigerians. They are not seen as an inconvenience, but as legitimate road users. Dedicated cycle lanes, traffic lights specifically for bicycles, and clear road markings all reinforce this. Drivers are required to give cyclists enough space when overtaking, and cyclists are expected to follow road rules just like motorists.
I recall an early experience while walking along a shared pedestrian and cycle path. I was walking casually when I heard a soft bell behind me. Instinctively, I braced myself, expecting irritation or aggression. Instead, the cyclist slowed down, rang the bell gently, and passed with a polite, “Thank you.” That small interaction highlighted something important: road use here is built on courtesy as much as regulation.
Learning to trust this system takes time. Nigerians are used to waiting for cars to pass before crossing, even when they technically have the right of way. In the UK, doing that can confuse drivers, who expect pedestrians to step forward confidently. Over time, many Nigerians learn to trust the rules and walk with assurance, knowing drivers are legally obliged to stop.
Cycling culture itself can feel surprising. People cycle to work in suits, corporate dresses, and even during cold weather. Helmets, reflective jackets, and lights are essential, and bike storage is carefully planned. What many Nigerians once viewed as leisure activity becomes clearly visible as a practical, respected mode of transport.
Children adapt especially quickly. Schools teach road safety early, encouraging children to use crossings properly, understand traffic signals, and wear reflective clothing. Nigerian parents often find their children correcting them, reminding them to wait for the green light or to cross only at designated points.
This emphasis on pedestrian and cyclist rights reflects deeper societal values. Safety comes first, especially for the most vulnerable road users. Environmental awareness also plays a role, as cycling is encouraged to reduce congestion and pollution. Above all, there is a strong sense of shared responsibility.
Adjusting to this system requires Nigerians to unlearn certain habits and replace them with trust and patience. It means accepting that slowing down does not mean weakness, and giving way does not mean losing control. Instead, it creates predictability and safety for everyone.
Living in the UK teaches that roads are shared spaces, governed by respect and clear rules. In learning to navigate pedestrian and cyclist rights, Nigerians gain confidence, reduce daily anxiety, and begin to appreciate how structure can create calm. It becomes yet another quiet lesson in adapting, not just to new roads, but to a new way of living together.
