The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has raised alarms about the disturbing trend of families renting out their children to beggars. This practice has transformed begging into a business within the territory, prompting serious concerns from officials.
Gloria Onwuka, the Acting Director of Social Welfare, highlighted the influx of child beggars, many of whom arrive in the city via trailers from northern Nigeria. She revealed that children as young as 8 to 10 years old are being trafficked for the purpose of begging.
As part of an ongoing initiative called Operation SWEEP Abuja Clean, authorities have apprehended 210 beggars, including 72 children, in various locations across the territory. Once caught, these individuals are taken to the FCT Vocational and Rehabilitation Centre in Bwari, where they receive accommodation and support before being returned to their home states.
FCTA Minister Nyesom Wike has expressed deep concern over this situation, instructing the Social Development Secretariat to eradicate begging and criminal activities in the capital to ensure public safety. Additionally, Adamu Gwary, the Director of Security Services, emphasized that the operation aims not only to remove beggars but also to address rising criminality that instills fear among residents.
