Street begging has become a pervasive issue in Lagos State, where almost every pedestrian walkway and bridge within the metropolis is populated by beggars, even as early as 7 am. While the sight of beggars on these thoroughfares is not a new phenomenon, the prevalence has reached a point where it has become a trade for both the physically challenged and those pretending to be challenged. Despite some critical actions the state government has taken in response to the menace, public sympathy often overshadows such efforts, portraying the government as insensitive to the feelings of the less privileged.
Historically, Lagos’s economy and lifestyle have led to street begging’s flourishing. Good-spirited individuals often stop by to offer alms, sustaining beggars who line the streets in rows. However, this act of kindness, fueled by the giving hearts of many Nigerians, has taken a hit due to the economy’s poor state, reducing citizens’ purchasing power. Consequently, the rate at which people give alms has dwindled, leaving numerous beggars hungry.
In response to this economic downturn and the reduced generosity of the public, some beggars have demonstrated resilience and resourcefulness by exploring alternative means of survival. An investigation by Economy & Lifestyle has uncovered that certain beggars, recognizing the changing landscape, have shifted from traditional begging to street trading. Leveraging their savings from the more prosperous times when alms were more plentiful, these enterprising beggars have initiated small businesses focused on selling everyday essentials.
For instance, Ahmed Babangida, a former beggar, has transformed his situation by venturing into street trading. Hawking polythene bags, sweets, and bitter kola in Yaba, he has ingeniously attached a small kiosk to his wheelchair, making it easier to navigate while selling his goods. Babangida’s story exemplifies the adaptability of some beggars in the face of economic challenges, demonstrating a proactive approach to sustaining themselves.
Another beggar, Ms. Sadiatu Mohamed, who used to rely on alms alongside her two kids, has experienced a decline in public sympathy. Even the sight of her malnourished children no longer elicits the generosity it once did. With this new reality, Mohamed contemplates transitioning into hawking food or fruits as an alternative means of survival.
The change in dynamics, where beggars turn to entrepreneurial activities, reflects the evolving socio-economic landscape. The decline in almsgiving is attributed to the economic hardships citizens face, leading some beggars to seek innovative solutions for their sustenance. This transition not only reshapes the traditional practice of almsgiving but also underscores the broader impact of economic challenges on the dynamics between the givers and receivers of alms in Lagos State.
