Lawal Halimat
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has intensified efforts to rid Abuja’s streets of beggars, scavengers, and street vendors, detaining 34 individuals across various locations on Monday. This action follows a recent directive from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, aimed at restoring order in the capital.
The operation was conducted by a joint task force comprising personnel from the Police, Military, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and other paramilitary agencies. Targeted areas included the city center, the airport road, the Kubwa-Gwarinpa axis, and the Asokoro-Nyanya-Karu corridor.
The FCT Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, described the crackdown as a “national assignment,” urging officers to approach the task with professionalism and determination. “We will assess our achievements and determine if there is a need to continue the operation,” Disu stated.
According to Director of Security Adamu Gwary, the FCTA has planned a two-week operation running day and night across key regions, covering major roads and densely populated areas. Gwary, represented by Peter Olumuji, outlined the focus zones, which span from the city center to Bill Clinton Road, the Kubwa and Gwarinpa areas, and corridors up to Nyanya and Jikwoyi.
In total, 15 beggars and 19 scavengers were detained, with officials noting that many beggars had gone into hiding after the minister’s directive. “We realized that most of them heeded the minister's warning. However, we have still been able to apprehend those testing the waters,” Gwary added.
The apprehended individuals are being taken to the FCTA’s rehabilitation center in Kuchikon, Bwari Area Council, where they will be profiled and evaluated. Those willing to pursue vocational training will be enrolled in programs aimed at personal empowerment, while those unwilling to participate will be returned to their respective states of origin.
Kaka Bello, Head of Enforcement at the Abuja Environmental Protection Board, emphasized that this crackdown is part of a broader initiative to eliminate unauthorized vendors, technicians, and other street nuisances that disrupt the capital’s public spaces.
