Kaduna Beggars Vanish Amidst Ongoing Naira Currency Shortage

Reports from the Daily Post indicate that beggars have become a rare sight in some parts of Kaduna State. The beggars who used to frequent the Kano Road, Kaduna Central Market, and Ahmadu Bello Way have been absent since the new currency policy was implemented. In 2021/2022, the Kaduna State Government had provided a permanent residence for the beggars, but many of them complained that it kept them away from the public who may have wanted to give them gifts. As a result, they left the apartments and returned to their usual spots. However, due to the Naira redesign policy of the Federal Government, many of these beggars, including some Nigeriens, are no longer seen asking for alms. Mallam Nasir Idris, one of the beggars, told the Daily Post that customers who used to give him N200 now ask him for an account number which he does not have. Isah Jibril, another beggar from Taiwo road, said he had not made N200 in two weeks. He noted that some good Samaritans bring food for them in the morning or evening, but lamented that life is still difficult and prayed to God for help.