Muslims in Lagos Launch Ibile Zakat Initiative to Combat Poverty

In a significant effort to alleviate poverty among Muslims in Lagos State and across Nigeria, dedicated Muslim stakeholders have launched the Ibile Muslims Community Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation. This foundation is designed to empower underprivileged individuals through zakat, a compulsory form of almsgiving in Islam. The public launch ceremony, held at the University of Lagos, was attended by notable figures, including the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu. Represented by his white cap chiefs, the Oba announced a generous donation of N100 million to support the new foundation, highlighting the community’s commitment to this impactful initiative.

Deputy Governor Hamzat emphasized the critical role of zakat in wealth redistribution and poverty eradication. He reminded attendees of their religious duty to give zakat, which is as obligatory as prayer and fasting in Islam. He urged wealthy Muslims to embrace zakat, not only as a spiritual obligation but also as a practical tool to uplift the less fortunate.

Hamzat also stressed the importance of transparency and accountability for the new foundation, stating, “This foundation must be transparent. People must know what the money is being used for and who the beneficiaries are.” His call for integrity in managing the funds is crucial to building trust and ensuring the foundation’s long-term success.

Legislative Support and Community Impact

Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, praised the initiative, highlighting its potential to emancipate people from poverty. He mentioned that the House is considering a law to ban street begging, aiming for a more organized and dignified way to support the less privileged. The proposed legislation seeks to empower the government and foundations to collect donations on behalf of those in need, reducing the number of people begging on the streets.

Expert Insights on Zakat’s Role in Poverty Alleviation

Two prominent Islamic scholars, Prof. Abdulrazaq Alaro and Sheikh Faruq Onikinipa, were guest lecturers at the launch. Prof. Alaro, an expert in Islamic law, underscored the potential of zakat in reducing poverty and achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He praised the Ibile Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation for its thorough planning and robust structure, which he believes will set a positive precedent for the Zakat administration in Nigeria.

Alaro emphasized, “Any society that fails to empower people at the lower rung of the social ladder is at risk of insecurity and criminality. Proper administration of zakat can significantly reduce poverty levels and aid in achieving SDGs, especially in developing countries.”

Sheikh Onikijipa, the Grand Mufti of the Ilorin Emirate, highlighted the significance of zakat as a fundamental pillar of Islam. He noted that zakat is mentioned in the Qur’an no less than 33 times, underscoring its importance as a measure for poverty eradication and empowerment.

The successful launch of the Ibile Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation marks a crucial step towards structured and impactful zakat distribution in Lagos. The foundation’s efforts are supported by the Grand Chief Imam of Lagos State and other divisional Imams, along with top personalities in the public and private sectors.

Prof. Alaro encouraged the community to rally around the Grand Chief Imam and support the foundation, stating, “You are not doing this for the Grand Chief Imam or the divisional Imams. You are doing this as a service to Islam and to the potential beneficiaries who are less privileged members of society.”

The Ibile Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation is a transformative initiative aimed at fighting poverty and empowering the underprivileged in Lagos. With robust support from community leaders, scholars, and government officials, this foundation is poised to make a substantial impact. By embracing zakat, the Muslim community in Lagos can unite to create a more equitable and prosperous society. This collective effort not only aligns with Islamic principles but also fosters social cohesion and economic stability, paving the way for a brighter future for all residents.