The Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development, in collaboration with the Lagos State Task Force, has initiated a week-long operation aimed at addressing the issues of begging, delinquency, and other social disorders throughout the state.
This initiative comes in response to growing public concern and aims to clear the streets of homeless individuals, delinquents, and children engaged in begging, which are considered both environmental nuisances and security threats.
During the launch of the operation, the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, highlighted that the campaign was driven by numerous messages and calls from residents expressing security worries.
He noted that complaints had reached such a level that relevant agencies were compelled to take immediate action. “Since the operation commenced, we have successfully rescued a significant number of adults and children from Lagos streets,” he stated.
All rescued individuals have been taken to rehabilitation centers, where they will receive proper care, rehabilitation, and plans for reintegration into society. Ogunlende emphasized that efforts are underway to reunite the children with their families, while adult participants will engage in empowerment programs designed to help them acquire skills for future economic independence.
The operation targets major thoroughfares, including Awolowo Way up to Falomo Roundabout, Ikoyi, Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue, Lekki Road, and various other locations across the state.
