The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has announced plans to remove beggars from the streets of Abuja starting next week.
Mr Wike described the situation as both an embarrassment and a security risk, emphasising that the presence of roadside beggars tarnishes the image of the nation’s capital.
Speaking on the issue, the minister highlighted the need to address the growing concern for public safety and the overall appearance of the city.
Mr Wike assured that measures will be implemented to clear the streets, in line with efforts to maintain Abuja’s initial plan as a well-organised and secure capital city.
“In terms of security let me state clearly now, we have declared war,” Mr Wike said.
“Abuja is turning into a beggars’ city. If you know you have a sister, you have a brother who is a beggar on the road, please from next week we will carry them. We will take them out.
“It is embarrassing that people will come in, the first thing they see are just beggars on the road. Sometimes too, they may not be beggars, they may be criminals pretending to be beggars. We will not allow that.
“So I’m giving you a public order from now to Sunday, from Monday we will pack them out. Let us know that we have a city that we can call a city, it’s very embarrassing. We are fighting insecurity and people will carry plates as if they are (beggars), they may be informants,” Mr Wike added.
The minister also emphasised that his responsibilities extend beyond infrastructure to include security.
He mentioned plans to renovate at least 25 schools in Abuja to enhance the quality of education across the Federal Capital Territory.
