News
“Stop Using Poverty as an Excuse for Security Threats” – Wike To Abuja Beggars
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.
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.
“But they’re actually monitoring your movements—knowing when you leave and return.
We have to take proactive measures.”
Since Uber exited Nigeria, rumours have been circulating over why the company left the country. One of the claims suggested that FAAN was part of the reason for the exit.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has now addressed the rumours and claims of its involvement in Uber’s decision to leave Nigeria.
FAAN said it could not speak for Uber’s decision, noting that the company likely had its own economic and regulatory considerations for leaving Nigeria.
FAAN’s Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku, said “I can’t speak to Uber’s exit from Nigeria. I am sure they have their own economic and regulatory decisions as to why they chose to exit.”
Governor of Akwa Ibom, Pastor Umo Eno, reflected on a career choice he made when he had no choice back then.
The governor recalled how he made not less than ₦10 million in a month from selling bread and akara.
He stated “I started selling Akara and bread. Back then, I was doing Akara Burger — we opened the bread and put Akara inside for you. I made not less than ₦10 million in a month.”
Many Nigerians reacted and wondered if his reflection was in response to what the First Lady advised Nigerians earlier about selling corn.
Uber makes headlines in Nigeria as it announces that it is leaving the country. The transportation and logistics business has been in operation in Nigeria since 2014 and suddenly announced its exit on September 2, 2026.
This started with users receiving a message from the team stating that the company would be leaving Nigeria, and the announcement quickly began trending as many Nigerians started talking about Uber’s exit.
Uber shared “We are writing to share some difficult news. After a thorough review of our business, we have made the tough decision to wind down our operations in Nigeria, effective 2 September 2026.
“This wasn’t a decision we made lightly, because it will have a real impact on our teammates and friends who have worked hard for Uber. It’s important to say that these changes are about how we’re organised and what we’re prioritising, not about anyone’s contributions to Uber, which we will always value,” Khosrowshahi said.
FAAN Breaks Silence on Claims Over Uber’s Departure From Nigeria
‘We’ve Signed a Winner’ – Maresca Hails Enzo Fernández After Man City Move
‘The Fastest Way to Ruin a Child’s Life’ – Patience Ozokwor Advises Parents
-
Sport16 hours ago‘We’ve Signed a Winner’ – Maresca Hails Enzo Fernández After Man City Move
-
Entertainment17 hours agoArtists Who Have Taken Their Music Around The World In 2026
-
Entertainment17 hours agoPriscilla Ojo and Juma Jux Secure Court Order Against Lizzy Anjorin
-
Entertainment17 hours agoTochi Urges BBNaija Ex-Housemates to Focus on Building Their Careers
-
Business15 hours agoFAAN Breaks Silence on Claims Over Uber’s Departure From Nigeria
-
Entertainment16 hours ago‘The Fastest Way to Ruin a Child’s Life’ – Patience Ozokwor Advises Parents