Abstract

This study investigated the causes and consequences of street begging in Nigeria. Descriptive survey design was adopted for the study. A sample of 52 adult beggars (26 male and 26 female) was selected through the purposive sampling technique for the study. Data were collected by means of an in depth structure interview designed by researchers. Simple percentages were used for analyzing the data the results showed that respondents indicated homelessness (100%), poverty (76.8%) and rejection by family harsh weather (94.2%), as the worst consequence of begging. The study also revealed respondents’ most important Economic/Psychosocial needs as Money (88.5%), learning a trade (80.8%), Healthcare (71.2%) and Accommodation (55.7%). Based on the findings, counseling intervention strategies were proffered in terms of organizing enlightenment workshops for stakeholders such as Government, Employment Agencies, News and Print Health care services as well as planning workshops for beggars and their families.

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