The Enugu State government as part of its commitment towards a robust urban renewal programme and vision to improve the aesthetics of the metropolis has commenced the relocation of beggars from the streets.
A relocation exercise was carried out in this regard recently by officials of the state’s ministry of gender affairs and social development and the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority at some designated areas like Presidential Road, Ogui Road, Holy Ghost, Main Market axis, Okpara Avenue, among others.
The destitute persons comprising mostly beggars were later moved to the Emene Rehabilitation Centre where facilities for their welfare had been provided by the state government.
Speaking to journalists, the commissioner for gender affairs and social development, Mrs. Peace Nnaji, said the centre has all the necessary facilities which would make life for the occupants conducive.
She said the centre’s improved condition flows from Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi’s interest in the welfare of the people, noting that the governor has made provision for the occupants and also ensures that they are trained in various skills. “Ten blind people were trained here. You can see these medical students here, they are being trained by doctors working here. All these are made available by our governor to ensure that these people get the best in life,” she said.
Princess Nnaji also commended Gov. Ugwuanyi for his recent approval for the employment of 50 physically-challenged persons into the state civil service, as well as his role in ensuring that the child rights act was signed into law in Enugu State. “This law ensures that children have their rights in the society: right to education, health, protection against abuse; that children do not hawk during school hours,” she added.
