In a thought-provoking lecture titled “Poverty: The Islamic Solution,” Dr. Abdullahi Abubakar Lamido, a distinguished lecturer from Bayero University, Kano, shed light on how Islamic teachings can pave the way for alleviating poverty among Muslims. The lecture occurred during the 22nd Annual National Unity Ramadan event organised by the Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society in Abuja yesterday, drawing an engaged audience eager to explore solutions to economic hardships.
Dr. Lamido emphasised that Islam fundamentally opposes poverty and advocates for its followers to live in abundance and comfort. He highlighted that access to basic needs is essential for Muslims to worship Allah without financial struggles. „Islam encourages its followers to seek wealth through hard work, even on Fridays,“ he stated, reinforcing the notion that economic independence is a vital aspect of spiritual life.
The lecturer referenced the Quran and the Prophet Muhammad‘s (S.A.W) teachings, emphasising no endorsement of poverty or begging within Islamic doctrine. Instead, Muslims are encouraged to actively seek Allah-bound wealth“ and assist those in need. He explained the importance of Zakat, the obligatory charity that Muslims must give, and the concept of Waqf, which involves setting aside assets to generate income for charitable purposes.
Dr. Lamido noted that the Quran contains more verses addressing economic welfare than those focused solely on prayer, highlighting the significance placed on financial responsibility within the faith.
Imam Faud Adeyemi, the chief missioner of the Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society, echoed Dr. Lamido‘s sentiments, lamenting the ineffectiveness of governmental efforts to alleviate poverty. He pointed out the systemic issues that prevent equitable resource distribution and argued that reliance on government solutions alone is insufficient. „Islam provides inherent solutions to our poverty issues,“ he stated, advocating for a proactive approach that empowers Muslims to become self-sufficient.
As part of this initiative, Imam Adeyemi announced the upcoming launch of the Al-Habibiyyah Endowment, which aims to create a Waqf for various aspects of community welfare. This project seeks to address many Muslims‘ economic challenges and cultivate an environment where charity and support for the needy become integral to daily life.
The lecture served as a clarion call for Muslims to embrace Islam‘s teachings as a means of economic empowerment and collective responsibility. By fostering a culture of self-reliance and charitable giving, the community can work towards overcoming poverty and ensuring a more prosperous future for all.
