Embrace Zakat To Reduce Poverty, Cleric Tells Muslims

Wealthy Muslims have been urged to support the Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation in its efforts to bring relief to the underprivileged.

The chief imam of Sheikh Yusuf Mosque, Gerewu, Ilorin, Imam Khidiru Onagun, gave the admonition during the presentation of the 2026 Zakat disbursement by the Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation in Ilorin, Kwara State.

Describing zakat as a serious commandment from the Almighty Allah that should not be taken lightly, Onagun said the adoption of Islamic principles in its distribution is a viable way to eradicate poverty in society. ‎ ‎The cleric, who spoke extensively about the benefits of paying zakat, called on stakeholders and organisations to support the foundation’s efforts to reduce or achieve zero poverty.

Earlier, the state coordinator of Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation, Engr. Ariyo Bashir Olalekan, said over N20m was raised as Zakat in 2026, with 84 applicants benefiting.

Olalekan listed the coverage areas as empowerment, education, health, widows’ support, orphans’ support, among others, and advised beneficiaries not to sell the items but to use them judiciously. ‎ ‎Speaking on building “a future of justice, dignity, and economic power for widows,” the Kwara State female coordinator, Hajia Bashirat Abdul-Raheem, said the death of a husband often alters a woman’s family structure and social standing. ‎ ‎She stressed the need for stronger enforcement of inheritance laws, accessible legal aid, and policy reforms to safeguard widows’ welfare. ‎