Abuja: The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, has urged the Umma Zakat Foundation to uphold the trust reposed in it with sincerity, justice, accountability, and compassion. The Sultan, who serves as the President General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, provided this guidance during the inauguration of the Board of Trustees of the Umma Zakat Foundation and the unveiling of the Easy Zakat App in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the traditional ruler, represented by the Emir of Keffi, Alhaji Shehu Yamusa III, emphasized the importance of transparency and integrity in the administration of Zakat. Proper management of Zakat resources is critical to ensuring they reach the intended beneficiaries, thereby positively impacting the lives of the less privileged. The Sultan also highlighted the necessity for the foundation to remain attentive to the welfare of vulnerable community members while promoting fairness and public confidence in Zakat administration.
The Sultan described Zakat as a pillar of Islam and a divine instrument for justice, equity, compassion, and societal protection. He acknowledged the foundation as a timely initiative aimed at aligning Islamic obligations with contemporary realities through technology. The Easy Zakat web and mobile platforms empower Muslims to fulfill these sacred obligations with ease and transparency, ensuring Zakat reaches those most deserving.
Furthermore, the Sultan encouraged the board to embrace innovation while ensuring accessibility for vulnerable individuals without digital technology. Alhaji Samaila Muhammad, the Emir of Argungu and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, stated that the Easy Zakat Platform was designed to enhance transparency, accountability, and public confidence in Zakat administration. The platform serves as a governance tool, enabling donors to track their contributions and ensure effective delivery to beneficiaries.
The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Abubakar Bagudu, endorsed the initiative and pledged the Federal Government’s collaboration to advance sustainable development. Bagudu emphasized the role of religious institutions and community-based organizations in complementing government efforts to reduce poverty and improve livelihoods.
Dr. Sam Agbo, in a presentation titled “Serving Humanity Through Social Finance,” elaborated on the initiative’s goal to transform charitable giving into sustainable community empowerment. The platform adopts a bottom-up approach, encouraging communities to take responsibility for their development by leveraging Islamic social finance. The objective is to empower vulnerable individuals to become productive and self-reliant.