When Charity Becomes Commerce in Nigeria
Sulyman Pakoyi
Street begging in Nigeria has evolved into a multi-billion-naira industry that has become a socially acceptable norm and remains spiritually relevant to Nigerians who are desperately in need of a spiritual breakthrough.
For these individuals, beggars serve as intercessors, or, to put it mildly, as an appeal for quick answers to prayers from God. The reason for this belief is not farfetched, since many Nigerians have been made to believe that prayers are answered more quickly when accompanied by almsgiving to the needy.
Islam, Christianity, and traditional religions preach this belief to their followers with serious emphasis on its benefits. These religions maintain that for God’s blessings on humans, the needy must enjoy support from His servants whom He has blessed with riches.
In their attempts to satisfy these requirements, Nigerians desperately needing spiritual breakthroughs turn to these beggars whom the prevailing cultural norm has recognised as needy. This best explains why beggars would say “Adua agba” or pray that God solves all your problems whenever they are approached with money.
These street beggars play the role perfectly. They present themselves as the needy who deserve to benefit from the riches of God’s creatures. Some of them are physically challenged and unable to provide for themselves, while others may appear physically fine but their clothing suggests they need help and money to survive.
There are also corporate beggars who appear in suits and ties, calmly approaching people for money. These individuals have decided to choose the easiest route for daily bread, thereby enjoying the goodwill of the Lord that was never meant for them.
However, it is important to note that while religions encourage charity, they generally discourage begging and often frown upon it as a way of life. Religious teachings tend to promote hard work and self reliance rather than dependence on handouts.
Economic realities also play a major role in sustaining begging. With poverty levels rising and basic necessities becoming increasingly unaffordable, some people resort to begging as a survival strategy. Because it can generate quick returns, it has gradually evolved into a business model that continues to attract more Nigerians.
Addressing street begging requires deliberate sensitisation by religious leaders on the moral and social implications of the practice. Beyond that, there is a need to create social conditions that make begging less attractive. This can only happen through job creation, improved access to education, and investments in skills acquisition programmes.
Nigeria must also confront the challenge of Almajiri beggars, whose lack of formal education and vocational skills leaves them with limited options. Without meaningful intervention, this situation will continue to pose social and security concerns.
Finally, reducing street begging will require a combination of economic empowerment, educational opportunities, and a cultural shift that promotes dignity in labour over dependence on charity.
Sulyman Pakoyi is a PRNigeria Fellow. [email protected]