The Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development has initiated a partnership with the Arewa community to address the pervasive issue of street begging in the state.
In a one-day stakeholders’ meeting held at Alausa, both entities reached a consensus that unequivocally condemns the practice of street begging throughout Lagos.
Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende, took the lead in articulating the government’s stance.
He underscored that street begging is prohibited in Lagos, aligning with the state’s Environmental Law and the Child Rights Law.
The meeting was prompted by the resurgence of street begging, which Ogunlende emphasized as detrimental to the state’s socioeconomic development.
“As a responsible and responsive government, we have decided to hold this meeting as part of our collaborative approach towards eradicating street begging in the state.
It has become a nuisance that we cannot afford to close our eyes to,” stated Ogunlende.
The Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mrs. Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, addressed the disturbing trend of using children for begging, condemning it as a violation of fundamental human rights enshrined in the Child Rights Law.
She expressed concern over the impact on the future of children, emphasizing the need to curtail this unwholesome practice.
Alhaji Ali Kabir, Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Arewa Chiefs, and Alhaji Yusuf Dandare, Chairman of the Arewa Community, pledged their support to the government’s efforts.
They committed to discouraging members of their communities from engaging in street begging, aligning with the shared goal of eradicating this issue.
This collaborative endeavor signifies a united front against street begging, highlighting the commitment of both the government and the Arewa community to address the root causes and promote socioeconomic development while safeguarding the rights of children involved in begging activities.
