Banning Street Hawking In Maiduguri; Negative Consequences -By Mustapha Abdullahi

With due regards and happiness, I congratulate you the governor of Borno State on behalf of the entire Borno State citizens for your efforts to make Borno excel in terms of infrastructural developments. But, I plead to the governor that the banning of street hawking in some places in Maiduguri metropolis may have negative consequences on many people in the state.

Banning street hawking in Maiduguri: The largest and most populated city in northeastern Nigeria, can have several negative consequences. While there may be some valid reasons for implementing such a ban, it is important to consider the potential adverse impacts on both the hawkers and the local economy. Many people depend on hawking around major markets in the state. Such people survive on this Minor businesses to take care of their families and other needs of lives.

Street hawking is often a source of income for many people in Maiduguri who have limited job opportunities. Banning it would lead to job losses and a significant decrease in the incomes of these individuals and their families. This can push them further into poverty and increase economic inequality.

Banning street hawking would force hawkers to find alternative employment opportunities, which are limited in Maiduguri. This can result in increased unemployment rates and heighten the already existing problem of job scarcity in the city.

Similarly, the state is recovering from the disruptions of Boko Haram insurgency that leads many to lost their businesses. This forced some people to join this minor businesses in order to survive and contributed to the increase of unemployment rates in the state.

Therefore, such efforts on this moment, may bring set back for the government to tackle unemployment rates that is bordering the state for years.

With limited opportunities for formal employment, the ban may push many street hawkers into the informal economy, which lacks regulations and protections. This can lead to exploitative working conditions, less income security, and a lack of social benefits for these individuals.

Street hawking adds vibrancy and diversity to the cultural fabric of a city. Banning it can lead to a loss of cultural traditions, local foods, and handicrafts that are often sold by the hawkers. This can diminish the overall appeal and uniqueness of Maiduguri, as well as negatively affect its tourism industry.

If street hawking is banned in Maiduguri, some hawkers may be forced to migrate to other cities or towns in search of better opportunities. This can place additional burdens on the infrastructure and services in those areas, potentially leading to overcrowding and increased competition for resources.

Without alternative means of survival, some street hawkers may resort to illegal activities or involvement in the informal economy, such as selling counterfeit goods or engaging in theft. This can contribute to an increase in crime rates in Maiduguri.

It Is crucial to approach street hawking regulation with a balanced perspective, considering the socio-economic implications and exploring alternative solutions such as designated areas for street vending, improved training and support for small businesses, and promoting formal employment opportunities.

Sir, we plead for your concern to consider the negative effects of banning street hawking in Maiduguri at this moment.

Mustapha Abdullahi from Mass Communication Department Borno State University, Maiduguri.