Lagos Warns Celebrities, Residents Against Funding Touts

The Lagos State Government has cautioned celebrities, social media influencers, and residents against giving money to street touts, popularly referred to as “area boys,” warning that such acts encourage insecurity and worsen environmental problems in the state.

The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, issued the warning in a statement shared on his official X handle on Tuesday.
According to Wahab, while some people consider giving money to touts a kind gesture, it has unintended consequences that undermine government efforts to maintain law and order.

“Celebrities, influencers, and even well-meaning Lagosians must stop giving money to these miscreants,” the commissioner said. “Each time you hand them cash, you are not solving their problem; you are encouraging them to stay on the streets, emboldening them to multiply, and reinforcing a cycle of lawlessness.”

He noted that the growing culture of financially rewarding touts has made enforcement of environmental and security regulations increasingly difficult for authorities.

The commissioner stressed that instead of indulging street miscreants, residents should channel their support through structured social intervention programmes and other lawful means that can empower youths productively.

Wahab added that the state government remains committed to tackling the menace of touting and other related vices in Lagos, but urged residents to cooperate by avoiding actions that make the problem worse.