The Federal Capital Territory Administration has launched an extensive crackdown on beggars, scavengers, and street vendors, detaining 34 individuals across various locations in Abuja on Monday. This operation comes in response to a recent ministerial directive instructing these individuals to vacate the capital.

A joint task force, comprising the Police, Military, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and other paramilitary agencies, executed the operation, focusing on four key areas: the city center, airport road, the Kubwa-Gwarinpa axis, and the Asokoro-Nyanya-Karu corridor.

FCT Commissioner of Police Olatunji Disu described the initiative as a “national assignment,” urging officers to carry out their duties with professionalism and determination. “We will evaluate our progress and return if further action is needed,” Disu remarked.

Director of Security Adamu Gwary indicated that the operation will continue both day and night for two weeks. Represented by Peter Olumuji, he outlined the targeted areas, emphasizing that the operations will be executed simultaneously.

During the initial sweep, 15 beggars and 19 scavengers were apprehended, with many beggars reportedly going into hiding after the minister’s announcement. “We noticed that most of them reacted to the minister’s directive, but we’ve still managed to catch a few who are testing their luck,” Gwary noted.

The detained individuals will be taken to the FCTA’s rehabilitation center in Kuchikon, Bwari Area Council, where they will undergo profiling and assessment. Those interested in vocational training will have the opportunity to gain skills for personal empowerment, while those unwilling to participate will be returned to their states of origin, as explained by Dr. Sani Rabe, Director of Social Welfare for the FCTA.

Kaka Bello, Head of Enforcement at the Abuja Environmental Protection Board, highlighted that this operation is part of a broader effort to eliminate street nuisances, including unauthorized roadside vendors and technicians occupying public spaces.