- By Gloria Ikibah
The House of Representatives has resolved to probe the Federal Capital Territory Administration’s (FCTA) social protection programmes and state of the rehabilitation centre in Bwari Area Council. 
This resolution was sequel to the adoption of a motion on the “Need to Investigate the Abuja Rehabilitation Centre and the Social Protection Programmes of the FCT,” by Rep. Bashiru Dawodu, representing Oshodi-Isolo Federal Constituency of Lagos State.
Debating the motion, Rep. Dawodu recalled the October 22, 2024 launch of a campaign by the FCTA aimed at curbing street begging in Abuja. The initiative was designed to enhance the city’s image and improve security.
He noted that many street beggars in the FCT are people living with disabilities. Other factors driving street begging include poverty, unemployment, internal displacement, the Almajiri system, and cultural practices.
The lawmaker further stated that campaigns against begging in Abuja have been ongoing since 2003. These efforts, involving arrests and repatriation, have largely failed to produce lasting results.
“The approach has failed to provide a lasting solution, as the beggars often return, sometimes relocating to new areas,” he explained.
He raised concerns about the lack of adequate rehabilitation facilities, emphasizing that the only centre in Bwari is underfunded and barely functional.
“The absence of effective long-term interventions such as rehabilitation programs, monthly survival allowances, feeding for Almajiris, and resettlement for internally displaced persons will only entrench street begging as a persistent social problem,” he added.
The House consequently directed its Committee on Disabilities to investigate the operations of the Bwari rehabilitation centre and assess the FCTA’s social protection programmes.
The committee has four weeks to report back with recommendations for legislative action.
