Worried about the security situation in the nation’s capital, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has given beggars on Abuja streets a one-week deadline to leave or face arrest.
Wike issued the ultimatum on Tuesday during the formal flag-off ceremony for the construction of an access road from Ring Road 1 via N16 to Judges Quarters, as well as roadways within Judges Quarters in Katampe district.
The minister frowned, stating that Abuja, the nation’s capital, is reverting to beggars’ city, and that the administration will no longer allow this.
According to him, “We have launched war on beggars on Abuja’s streets. Abuja is reverting to beggar’s city.
If you have a sister or a brother who begs on Abuja’s streets, inform them that they will be removed next week.
It is embarrassing that when people enter the city, the first thing they notice are beggars on the street. They may also be informants, rather than beggars.
They could be criminals claiming to be beggars. We will not tolerate it. So, I’m issuing a public order from now until Sunday, and we’ll remove them starting Monday of next week. Let us know that we now have a city to call our own.”
He disclosed that the projects are expected to be committed in May, 2025, adding that the administration has already paid about 70% of the project cost.
He continued, “As I speak to you, we have not less than 70% of the money in the budget.
So, you have to work day and night to make sure Mr. President commissioned the project in his second year anniversary.”
Flagging off the road project, the speaker of House of Representatives, Hon Tajudeen Abbas, noted that the construction of roads, bridges, and other critical infrastructure facilitates the movement of people, goods, and services, which in turn spurs productivity, creates jobs, and improves the living standards of all Nigerians.
Abbas pointed out that the Federal Capital Territory, with its unique status as the seat of government, the development of infrastructure is not only an economic necessity, but also a reflection of our national aspirations.
Represented by the deputy speaker, Hon Benjamin Kalu, the house speaker said that it is common knowledge that Nigeria, like many other developing nations, has an infrastructure deficit.
He went on to say, “According to recent estimates, Nigeria will need to invest approximately $3 trillion over the next 30 years to close the infrastructure gap and achieve the level of development required for sustained economic growth.”
The road network, power supply, housing, healthcare, and education sectors are among the areas that require immediate attention.
As Abuja’s population grows at a 5% annual rate, the infrastructural deficiency becomes increasingly apparent. This puts strain on current facilities and emphasizes the need for more access roads, housing, and necessary services to meet the demands of residents.”
