Korede Abdullah 
LAGOS, Nigeria – The Lagos State Government has announced plans to return 226 beggars arrested during a statewide enforcement operation to their states of origin after completing profiling and documentation procedures.
Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, disclosed the development on Thursday following a coordinated operation carried out by the Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Task Force and the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps.
The operation forms part of the state’s ongoing environmental clean-up campaign aimed at improving public safety, reducing environmental nuisances and maintaining sanitation standards across the metropolis.
“In continuation of the ongoing daily clean-up and enforcement exercise across Lagos State, a total of 226 beggars were apprehended today,” Wahab said.
According to the commissioner, the exercise specifically targeted street begging activities, which authorities say contribute to environmental degradation, public disorder and security concerns in several parts of the state.
The government said those apprehended would undergo proper profiling and documentation before being relocated to their respective home states.
Wahab stressed that the operation is part of broader efforts to create a cleaner, safer and more orderly environment for residents, businesses and visitors.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustaining sanitation enforcement activities and tackling practices considered detrimental to urban development and environmental management.
The latest arrests come amid intensified efforts by the Lagos State Government to enforce environmental regulations and improve public infrastructure across Africa’s largest city.
Officials say similar operations will continue in identified hotspots as part of the state’s long-term strategy to promote public health, environmental sustainability and urban order.
About the Author
Hussaini Ibrahim 
