Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, has announced a decisive action plan against begging in Abuja, declaring that enforcement agents will begin apprehending beggars starting Monday. This bold statement was made during the official flag-off ceremony for the construction of an access road from Ring 1 by N16 to Judges’ quarters in Katampe District on Tuesday.
Wike stated, “Let me state clearly that we have declared war; Abuja is turning into a beggar city.” He expressed concern about the growing number of beggars and emphasized the need for immediate action. “If you know you have a sister or brother who is a beggar, please, from next week, we’ll carry them. We’ll take them out,” he urged, highlighting the impact of the situation on the city’s image.
The minister further explained that the visibility of beggars poses an embarrassment to the city. “It is embarrassing that people will come in and the first thing they’ll see are just beggars on the road,” he remarked, suggesting that the issue goes beyond mere aesthetics to concerns about safety. “Sometimes, they may be criminals pretending to be beggars. We will not allow that,” he warned, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to restoring order.
Wike provided a timeline for the enforcement, stating, “So, I’m giving you a public holiday from now until Sunday. From Monday, we will pack them out.” His words indicate a structured approach to addressing the situation, aiming for a significant change in a short period.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance Abuja’s reputation as a major city on the global stage. “Let everybody know that we owe a duty to make sure Abuja competes favourably with cities of the world,” he asserted. Wike expressed confidence that the city could replicate the infrastructure seen in other major urban centers, stating, “As far as road infrastructure is concerned in Abuja, we are not going to compromise; we will use the best contractors.”
Addressing concerns that the administration is focused solely on Abuja, Wike reassured the public of his commitment to surrounding areas. “A lot of people have said that we are concentrating on Abuja; that is not correct. As I speak to you, tomorrow, Thursday, we’ll be at the area councils,” he announced. He also mentioned plans to visit Kuje, Gwagwalada, and Kwali on Monday.
Wike further emphasized that the city’s development extends beyond roads. He noted, “This December, we’re commissioning six roads that will total about 65 kilometres in the area councils.” He highlighted that equal attention must be given to both urban and rural areas for comprehensive development. “If the city does not look good, you can imagine what will happen in the rural areas,” he warned.
In addition to road improvements, Wike revealed plans to rehabilitate educational institutions. “We are not concentrating on roads alone. We have not less than 25 schools to be rehabilitated,” he stated, expressing dismay at the condition of schools in Abuja. “You can’t believe that in a city like Abuja, you’ll just go to the schools and you’ll ask yourself, Is it Abuja at all?” he said, underlining the need for improved educational infrastructure.
