The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike has said that the FCT administration cannot be responsible for feeding beggars in Abuja.
Speaking in a video shared by TV Platinum from 0:17, Wike addressed criticisms surrounding recent efforts by the administration to curb street begging and informal settlements in the capital.
“You are saying that we should stop because people don’t have what to eat, it’s not correct,” Wike said. “There are those who believe that they will continue to beg. It will be difficult for us to follow that kind of pattern.”
Wike stressed that while the government recognizes the economic challenges many Nigerians face, encouraging street begging or turning a blind eye to illegal settlements would only worsen the situation. “And we can’t say just keep them in so so area and then train them for this job, the FCT cannot handle that,” he added.
The Minister’s remarks come amid a broader urban renewal campaign in Abuja, which includes clearing illegal structures and relocating informal dwellers. While some applaud the effort as necessary to restore order and security in the capital, critics argue it further marginalizes vulnerable groups.
Wike, however, maintained that the FCT administration is focused on building a modern, organized capital city and will not adopt a policy that promotes dependency. “We must move forward. This city cannot be run on sympathy alone,” he stated.
The comments have sparked debate on social media, with many Nigerians calling for a more humane and inclusive approach to addressing poverty and unemployment in the FCT. Others back the Minister’s tough stance, urging a long-term strategy for urban development and social welfare.
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