Abuja: Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society has successfully trained no fewer than 60 Muslim and Christian leaders on the concept of philanthropy, emphasizing the importance of understanding and structured giving to address poverty and hunger. The initiative was aimed at fostering a collaborative approach among faith leaders to promote prosperity in Nigeria.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the training, themed ‘Building Communities through Sustainable Faith-Based Giving’, was organized because poverty and hunger do not differentiate based on religion. Malam Fuad Adeyemi, Executive Director/National Chief Imam of Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society, highlighted the need for both faith leaders to comprehend and teach the structured concept of philanthropy in their respective communities. He noted that the government’s efforts alone are insufficient to eradicate poverty.
Adeyemi stressed the importance of structured philanthropy, stating that while philanthropy has been practiced, it often lacks organization. He highlighted the need for a systematic approach to ensure continuous support, such as paying school fees consistently without requiring the recipient to request assistance repeatedly.
Rev. Peter Ogunmuyiwa, the Archbishop of Abuja, Northern Province, African Church, praised the initiative as an enlightening and impactful program that encourages resource utilization for community upliftment. He emphasized the role of philanthropists in using their resources to make meaningful contributions to society.
Mrs. Elizabeth Abuja, General Coordinator of the Women’s Interfaith Council (WIC), expressed her satisfaction with the collaborative efforts between Muslim and Christian women through WIC. She underscored the importance of prioritizing humanity over religious differences to foster unity.
Rev. Cosmos Asuquo from Hand of God Church in Mararaba also commended the training program, reinforcing the positive impact of interfaith collaboration on alleviating suffering in Nigeria.