If You Go To Any Petrol Station Outside Abuja, Beggars Are More Than The People Buying Fuel -Bugaje

Islamic scholar and civil society leader, Usman Bugaje, has expressed concern over the level of poverty in northern Nigeria, saying the growing number of beggars around petrol stations reflects the worsening economic hardship confronting many communities across the region.

Bugaje made the remarks during an interview aired on the official YouTube channel of SYMFONI on Sunday, July 19, 2026, where he discussed the country’s economic situation and its impact on ordinary Nigerians.

Speaking during the interview, he argued that rising poverty has become increasingly visible in many parts of the North, with more people struggling to meet their daily needs amid the country’s economic challenges.

According to Bugaje, one of the clearest indicators of the situation can be seen at petrol stations outside the Federal Capital Territory.

In his words, “If you go to any petrol station, especially outside Abuja and particularly in the North, you will find that the number of beggars at the station is greater than the number of people trying to buy fuel.”

He said the development illustrates the depth of economic hardship facing many households, noting that a growing number of people are unable to earn sustainable incomes or meet basic living expenses.

Bugaje maintained that the situation deserves urgent attention from policymakers, stressing that poverty has become a significant challenge affecting social stability and economic development.

He explained that many families are struggling with the rising cost of food, transportation, healthcare, and other essential goods and services, making it increasingly difficult for them to maintain a reasonable standard of living.

According to him, addressing poverty requires more than temporary relief measures. He argued that governments at all levels should focus on creating employment opportunities, supporting productive sectors of the economy, and implementing policies that improve the livelihoods of ordinary citizens.

Bugaje further stated that sustainable economic reforms should prioritize education, agriculture, entrepreneurship, and skills development to help people become self-reliant and reduce dependence on charity.

He also emphasized the importance of good governance and effective public policies in tackling the underlying causes of poverty, saying long-term solutions would require coordinated efforts from government institutions, the private sector, and civil society organizations.

The Islamic scholar noted that while Nigeria possesses enormous human and natural resources, those advantages must be translated into tangible improvements in the lives of citizens through inclusive economic growth and responsible leadership.

Concluding his remarks, Bugaje reiterated that the widespread presence of beggars around petrol stations, particularly in northern Nigeria, should serve as a wake-up call for leaders and policymakers. He maintained that reducing poverty and improving living conditions should remain a national priority, adding that meaningful economic reforms are essential to restoring hope and creating opportunities for millions of Nigerians struggling to cope with the country’s current economic realities……See More