The Kano State Bureau of Statistics (KSBS) has issued a statement refuting claims made by the Global Improvement of Less Privileged Persons Initiative (GIOPPINI) that over two million children are begging in unsafe conditions within Kano State. The GIOPPINI had highlighted the plight of these children, describing their living situations as hazardous and unsanitary, citing findings from research and surveys conducted by the organization. This assertion has raised alarms and calls for government intervention to tackle the issue of child begging in the region.

In response to the allegations, KSBS Director General Dr. Suraj Sulaiman stated that the bureau found the claims to be misleading and emphasized the need for accurate statistics before drawing such conclusions. The KSBS asserted that figures relating to child begging should be carefully examined to avoid misinforming the public and government officials. This controversy highlights the ongoing challenges faced by officials in managing social issues, particularly those involving vulnerable populations like children.

The potential implications of this dispute may extend beyond mere statistics, as it underscores the necessity for collaboration between NGOs and governmental bodies to ensure that vulnerable communities receive appropriate support and interventions. Furthermore, this incident could affect public perception of NGOs and their credibility in future advocacy efforts. The KSBS's call for a retraction signifies the importance of factual reporting as a foundation for addressing social issues like child begging.