I Saw Young Beggars In Kano But My Host Said Don't Give Them Money They'd Use It To Buy Drugs — Shittu Recalls Kano Experience

Former Minister of Communications Adebayo Shittu has shared an experience he encountered in Kano during the 2022 presidential campaign period, revealing how he was advised not to give money to children begging on the streets because of fears the money could be used to buy drugs.

Shittu spoke about the incident during an interview on Symfoni TV while discussing social challenges affecting young people across Nigeria, especially concerns surrounding substance abuse and street begging among vulnerable children.

According to the former minister, the incident happened shortly after Friday prayers while he was leaving with his host during campaign activities ahead of the 2023 general election.

He explained that he noticed several young children begging and immediately felt compelled to help them financially.

However, Shittu said his host quickly stopped him from bringing out money for the children.

“During the presidential campaign, I was in Kano and, after Friday prayers, we were going out when I saw young children begging,” he recalled.

“When I saw some of them, I wanted to bring out money to give to them, but my host said, ‘No, don’t give them money.’”

According to Shittu, he questioned the advice because he viewed the children as ordinary beggars in need of assistance.

“I asked why, saying, ‘These are beggars,’ and he replied that if I gave them money, they would go and use it to buy drugs,” he stated.

The former minister said the experience left a strong impression on him and made him reflect deeply on the growing social problems affecting young people in several communities.

According to him, the situation highlights broader concerns about substance abuse, poverty, and the vulnerability of children exposed to harsh street conditions.

Shittu noted that while giving alms is widely regarded as an act of compassion and kindness, society must also pay attention to the deeper issues driving many children into street begging and exposing them to harmful habits.

He argued that the problem requires more than temporary assistance and should involve coordinated efforts aimed at protecting vulnerable children and helping them build better futures.

According to the former minister, addressing the issue effectively would require cooperation among parents, religious leaders, community stakeholders, and government institutions.

He stressed the importance of education, mentorship, and social support systems capable of keeping young people away from drug abuse and criminal activities.

The comments have since sparked discussions online regarding child begging, poverty, and substance abuse in parts of northern Nigeria and other urban centers across the country.

Some Nigerians agreed with Shittu’s concerns, arguing that many vulnerable children are increasingly exposed to drugs and criminal influences because of poverty, homelessness, and lack of proper care.

Others emphasized that the issue should not discourage compassion toward struggling children but instead encourage long-term solutions focused on rehabilitation, education, and economic support for affected families.

Social commentators also pointed to the growing challenge of youth drug abuse across different parts of Nigeria, with many calling for stronger intervention programs and awareness campaigns.

As reactions continue, Shittu’s remarks have once again drawn attention to the complex social realities surrounding street begging, child welfare, and substance abuse in Nigeria.