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“Stop Using Poverty as an Excuse for Security Threats” – Wike To Abuja Beggars

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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has defended his recent crackdown on beggars in Abuja, explaining that the measure aims to address growing security threats in the nation’s capital.

In October, Wike declared a “war on beggars,” aiming to reduce the rising presence of street beggars across Abuja.

Speaking on Wednesday during a live media briefing at his Abuja office, Wike addressed these concerns, highlighting the link between security and the need to regulate street activities.

He explained that while poverty remains an ongoing challenge, it should not be used as an excuse to overlook potential security risks.

Wike pointed out that in many cities around the world, urban policies limit street begging to ensure public safety, and Abuja should be no different, especially as it hosts major government offices, embassies, and businesses.

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The former Rivers State governor emphasized that security in the FCT cannot be taken lightly.

He noted that some beggars in the city may not be as innocent as they appear.

In his view, there’s a real risk of criminals and terrorist informants disguising themselves as beggars to gather information on individuals, tracking residents’ routines and potentially relaying crucial details to criminal networks.

Wike highlighted that no country has fully eliminated poverty or unemployment but argued that in the face of security threats, a balance must be struck.

“There are people who could easily position themselves near your home or office under the guise of begging,” Wike said.

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“But they’re actually monitoring your movements—knowing when you leave and return.

We have to take proactive measures.”


 

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Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Says Nigeria Lacks a Maintenance Culture

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The Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has spoken on Nigeria’s economy, stating that the country lacks a good maintenance culture.

She said “The fact is that endowments alone do not add value. Budgetary allocations alone do not lead to new roads or good maintenance.”

“We lack a maintenance culture in the country. I have to say that. I’m Nigerian, but we need that. We need better ports and digital infrastructure, and lower trade costs. Execution is what matters, and successful execution requires focus. It requires prioritisation.”


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Peter Obi Criticises President Tinubu’s Statement on Hunger

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Politician and former presidential candidate Peter Obi speaks on President Bola Tinubu’s comments regarding the rising hunger and worsening economic situation in Nigeria.

It can be noted that the President recently stated that hunger has always existed in Nigeria.

Peter Obi responded “I watched with deep concern the statement made by President Bola Tinubu to the Catholic Bishops, that there has always been hunger in Nigeria, even before he was born.”

“While it is true that hunger has been a part of human life and has existed in our country for decades, such a statement appears insensitive to the plight of the millions of Nigerians who face worsening economic hardship today.”


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Nigerian Army Launches New IED Training Programme

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Reports have been shared stating that the Nigerian Army has launched a new programme designed to train and improve the skills of engineers in tackling threats posed by Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).

The seminar is being organised by the 41 Engineer Brigade of the 1 Division Nigerian Army.

It was stated “Improvised Explosive Devices have become one of the greatest security threats confronting the Nigerian Army in ongoing counter-insurgency operations. Their widespread use has complicated military operations and humanitarian activities in conflict-affected areas.”


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