CELEBRITIES, INFLUENCERS ENCOURAGING LAGOS STREET URCHINS — COMMISSIONER

Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, has criticised celebrities, influencers and members of the public who provide financial assistance to children and young people living on the streets, saying such gestures could undermine government efforts to address street begging and homelessness.
Wahab said some well-meaning individuals may not realise that giving money directly to street urchins encourages them to remain on the streets rather than accept rehabilitation and reintegration programmes provided by the government.
The commissioner urged celebrities and social media influencers to use their platforms to promote responsible interventions instead of encouraging street begging or financially supporting activities that keep vulnerable children on the streets.
According to him, the government is implementing measures aimed at removing children from dangerous street environments, providing care and rehabilitation, and reintegrating them into families and society.
He appealed to members of the public who want to assist vulnerable children to channel their support through recognised government agencies and credible organisations capable of providing sustainable assistance.
Wahab stressed that tackling street begging and child homelessness requires collective responsibility, noting that government efforts would be more effective if members of the public stopped actions that unintentionally encourage children to remain on the streets.
He also called for greater awareness among Lagos residents about the dangers associated with children living and begging on major roads and public spaces.
The commissioner reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to addressing the issue while ensuring that vulnerable children receive appropriate care, protection and opportunities to rebuild their lives.