The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has announced that the government will begin removing beggars from the streets of Abuja starting Monday. This move is part of a broader initiative to clean up the capital city and restore its status as a modern and orderly environment.

Speaking during a press briefing, Wike expressed concern over the rising number of beggars and street dwellers in the FCT, which he believes detracts from the city’s aesthetics and poses security challenges. He emphasized that the presence of beggars on major roads, markets, and public spaces has become a pressing issue that the government can no longer ignore. According to the minister, the FCT administration will work with law enforcement agencies and social services to relocate beggars to rehabilitation centers where they will receive care, skills training, and support.

Wike highlighted that the government’s approach is not merely punitive but also aimed at providing long-term solutions for those affected. He acknowledged that many of the beggars are victims of poverty and unemployment, and stressed the need to offer them a path to reintegration into society. The rehabilitation programs will focus on equipping them with the skills needed to find sustainable livelihoods, reducing their reliance on street begging.

The minister’s declaration has sparked mixed reactions, with some applauding the effort to improve Abuja’s public spaces, while others raise concerns about the welfare of the displaced individuals. Wike, however, reiterated that the FCT government is committed to addressing the root causes of street begging through social welfare programs.

In conclusion, the FCT’s plan to begin picking up beggars is part of a larger campaign to enhance the city’s image and ensure a safer, more organized urban environment for residents and visitors alike.