FACTORS RESPONSIBLE FOR PERSISTENT STREET BEGGING IN NORTHERN NIGERIA

Abstract

The issue of street begging has been a serious social problem in Nigeria but observed to be more pronounced in Northern Nigeria. Several measures to curb the problem has been taken at different times by both the three ties of government (local, state and federal) but the problem still persist. It is in the light of this that the paper examined the factors that are responsible for the persistent street begging in Northern Nigeria. The historical development of begging was analyzed. Causes of street begging in Nigeria such as disabilities, poverty, homelessness, cultural and religious factors, bereavement and unemployment were also examined. The paper then recommended that a well-organized social welfare policies, quality and functional education, vibrant and sound economic policies to reduce poverty among the populace, political will and enactment of laws for protection and care of the indigents will go a long way in curbing the persistent street begging in Northern Nigeria.