55yrs after, Kwara launches Zakat Council

Kwara State on Saturday launched its maiden Zakat council to cater for the poor and needy in the state.

This is the first time since the creation of the state in 1967 that such body will be formally established.

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Named the Majlis (Council) for Sadaqah, Zakat and Waqf, the non-governmental initiative which has been long conceived to fight extreme poverty and hunger among Muslims in the state had faced several hurdles before its launch on Saturday.

Speaking during the program, Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who launched the council described it as a great legacy for the House of Sheikh Alimi.

He thanked the Emir of Ilorin Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari for the initiative.

“History is being made today in Kwara State as we gather for this unique project that should concern every Muslim in our state.

“Many centuries ago, Allah has prescribed a surefooted solution to the problem of mass poverty and social integration in our society.

“Many Muslim societies have taken full advantage of the institution of Zakat and Sadaqah to reduce extreme hunger and build a cohesive society where no one is left behind”, he said.

He added, “The objective of this initiative aligns with our policy to support the poor, underserved and vulnerable people through the Kwara State Social Investment Programme.”

Chairman of the council, Alhaji Sa’ad Belgore, said its mandate was to mobilize all Muslim philanthropists in the state to collect, distribute and administer Sadaqat, Zakat and Waqf through the council to impact positively on the society.

Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of Kwara state Traditional Council, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari (CFR), expressed optimism that the launch would make the initiative — which had long been conceived -stronger and exemplary to the World.