“Do not deprive us of our livelihood” – SMEs Groans

The hawkers, who had been trading on various streets throughout the FCT, made the plea in an interview with our reporter that the minister of the FCT should not prohibit street merchants from operating within Abuja city.

Wike stated that maize merchants, cloth sellers, and other street hawkers must leave their sites since they contribute to instability and criminal activity in the nation’s capital.

Blessing Adam, a fruit seller, said the government should encourage them, adding that their sales will help to strengthen Abuja’s economy rather than hinder it.

“Instead of sending us off the roads with nowhere to go, the minister can create a platform that will help us financially support our small businesses.”

“Hawking is our source of income, and we would appreciate it if the FCT administration would help us find an affordable place to live,” she said.

Another vendor, Mariam Aderigbe, who sells soft drinks and snacks, stated that moving street hawking out of the city center will make their lives more difficult. According to her, renting a shop in one of the city’s popular marketplaces will cost between $500,000 and $700,000.

“This is a minor trade. Some individuals simply pass through and may wish to eat a snack or purchase water while in transit. They buy anything they see as they pass by in order to refresh themselves.

“We’re attempting to help ourselves. I don’t have anywhere to go, so I’m relying on this business to support my family,” Aderigbe continued.

However, Mr. Abu Isiaka said he had additional businesses that could make him money if he was ever pulled off the street.

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“Aside from coming here to sell bitter kola and sweets, I trade in livestock and poultry,” he stated.

“If they say they don’t want us on the streets, I can move and keep my other businesses going.” It won’t be a problem for me.”