Scavengers in Kaduna are profiting from the state government’s massive road construction by storming the sites and removing discarded iron rods and other materials.
The state government’s urban renewal program, which includes road expansion and the construction of flyover bridges, has increased the income of young scavengers.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), a large number of youths are storming construction sites, including those near Tudun Wada/Kasuwan Barci Road, to collect disused iron rods and plates in particular.
Some of the youths who spoke with NAN said the projects were a double blessing because the roads were being widened and they were making more money scavenging at the sites.
Khalifa Salihu, a 22-year-old Tudun Wada resident, stated that he came out early to collect iron rods.
He claims to sell iron rods at the scrap market for N170 to N270 per kilogram, depending on the quality.
“We are pleased with this development because it has provided us with new opportunities in the iron scavenging business, as we do not lack for food or drink in this business.”
“We are seeing progress as a result of the ongoing road rehabilitation at Kasuwan Barci.”
“I make between N20,000 and N50,000 a day selling discarded iron rods and plates.” “We give thanks to God for this,” he said.
Similarly, Abubakar Umar, 23, stated that he has made a lot of money since the construction work began.
Umar expressed gratitude to the state government for extending the road rehabilitation project to his area, saying, “As you can see, I have received a few iron rods worth N2,000.” “I am content.”
Abubakar Sadik, another scavenger, said he has been scavenging for five years and buys metals from workers at the sites for sale at the scrap market.