Skaters Push Back Against

Assembly’s Plan to Sanction Road Skating

A proposed move by the Osun State House of Assembly to sanction skating activities on public roads has drawn criticism from the Skating Association of Nigeria, with local leaders urging lawmakers to reconsider the plan.

In an interview with Newsworld, Osun State Coordinator of the Skating Association, Mr. Tijani Jelili, expressed concern over the move, calling for collaboration rather than restriction.

Jelili emphasized that while regulation is necessary for public safety, a blanket sanction would overlook the benefits skating brings to the community.

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“Skating is more than a sport—it is a vital part of community development,” Jelili said. “It engages our youth, promotes discipline, and offers economic and creative opportunities.”

According to the association, skating has become a growing outlet for young people across Osun State, helping to combat youth restiveness and unemployment.

Skating events, they argue, also serve as platforms for public engagement and local tourism, often drawing crowds and fostering unity.

Rather than imposing outright sanctions, Jelili called on the House of Assembly to work with the Skating Association to develop a regulatory framework.

He said rather than banning skating or sanctioning skaters, the state government could designate safe skating zones, establishing safety protocols, and partnering with local authorities to promote responsible participation.

“Skating is not a nuisance—it is our partner in building a vibrant, inclusive, and progressive Osun State,” he said. “Let us support it, not suppress it.”

The skating community, however, remains hopeful that dialogue will lead to a more balanced outcome.

Recall that the House of Assembly on Tuesday at the Committee of the Whole of the Plenary Session considered the bill titled “The Osun State Skating Restriction Bill 2025” aimed at restricting skaters from plying major roads across the state to prevent road accidents.