In the age of social media, platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and X have revolutionised how people connect, create, and even earn a living. However, amidst this innovation lies a troubling trend: the rise of “digital beggars.” These individuals take to social media daily, livestreaming themselves while soliciting monetary gifts from viewers in the form of digital tokens like lions and flowers etc. This phenomenon has gained significant traction in Nigeria, cutting across all age groups.
While some see this as harmless or even entrepreneurial, it is no different from traditional begging. The only distinction is the medium. Whereas traditional beggars sit at street corners or motor parks with outstretched hands, digital beggars rely on smartphones and internet connections to broadcast their pleas to a global audience.
The comparison between digital beggars and traditional street beggars is striking. Both rely on others for their livelihood, with one key difference: access to technology. A digital beggar may have a smartphone and internet connection, but their actions are no more noble or valuable than those of a traditional beggar.
While street beggars are often driven by circumstances such as poverty or disability, many digital beggars appear to have the means to pursue meaningful work. Yet, they choose the easy route, disguising their actions as “content creation” or “engagement.”
If society continues to celebrate digital begging, what message are we sending? Is it acceptable to sit idly and solicit money rather than contribute meaningfully to the community?
What is even more alarming is the growing recognition these digital beggars receive. Many have been invited to interviews on podcasts, radio shows, and even television stations, where they are celebrated as influencers or trendsetters. This glorification sends the wrong message to society.
It begs the question: when will media houses start inviting street beggars to podcasts and interviews? Why is a digital beggar, who is essentially doing the same job, treated differently simply because they are better dressed or have access to technology? At their core, both forms of begging are the same—they serve no productive purpose, rely on others’ generosity, and contribute little to societal progress.
This normalization and celebration of digital begging are dangerous for our society. It encourages laziness, fosters a culture of entitlement, and risks creating a generation of young people who view begging—not hard work or problem-solving—as a legitimate career path.
The rise of digital begging poses several threats to African society:
- Erosion of Hard Work and Purpose:
Instead of using social media as a tool for self-improvement or entrepreneurship, many young people now see it as a shortcut to financial gain through digital panhandling. This mindset undermines the values of hard work, creativity, and innovation. - A Misleading Example for the Youth:
When young people witness digital beggars gaining fame, money, and media attention, they may be tempted to follow the same path. This creates a ripple effect, where more individuals abandon productive pursuits in favor of begging. - Societal Decay:
A society that celebrates begging—whether on the streets or online—is on a dangerous trajectory. It fosters dependency and entitlement while discouraging personal responsibility and ambition.
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It is time to reject the glorification of digital begging and promote values that uplift society. Here’s what we need to do:
- Media Responsibility:
Media houses must stop giving platforms to digital beggars. Instead, they should focus on celebrating individuals who solve problems, innovate, and inspire others through hard work and creativity. - Parental Guidance:
Parents must teach their children the value of diligence, self-reliance, and purpose. Social media can be a powerful tool, but it should be used productively, not as a means to beg. - Social Media Accountability:
Platforms like TikTok should introduce policies that discourage the misuse of livestream features for begging. They should also promote content that adds value to society. - Cultural Shift:
As a society, we must prioritize and celebrate hard work, innovation, and problem-solving over entitlement and dependency.
Conclusion
The rise of digital begging on social media is a dangerous trend that threatens the fabric of African society. It is no different from traditional begging, except for the use of technology. Celebrating digital beggars only serves to normalize laziness and entitlement while discouraging productivity and ambition.
If we want to secure a brighter future for our youth, we must reject the glorification of digital begging and champion the values of hard work, resilience, and purpose. Social media should be a tool for empowerment, not a platform for panhandling.
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