By Kadiri Abdulrahman
An Islamic Cleric, Imam Fuad Adeyemi, says zakat and waqf are living institutions, meant to restore dignity, strengthen livelihoods and build sustainable futures.
Adeyemi, the leader of Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society, said this on Saturday in Abuja, at the society’s 5th National Zakat and Waqf Day, and 15th Public Zakat Disbursement.
According to him, Al-Habibiyyah sees zakat as an immediate relief with purpose, and waqf as as a long-term investment for generations yet unborn.
“Together, they form a powerful framework for social justice and economic stability. They are both wings of a bird without which the bird will not be able to fly,” he said.
The cleric said that Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society was founded twenty three years ago with a clear vision to serve Allah through service to humanity.
“Over the years, that vision has matured into an institution driven by structure, accountability and measurable impact.
“Today, the trust placed on us has translated into concrete support for families, students and skilled but undercapitalised individuals across our communities,” he said.
He said that the society introduced the National Zakat Day to educate, enlighten and interact with genarality of Ummah on issues and current challenges facing the payment, collection and distribution of zakat and waqf.
He said that this year’s celebration of national zakat and waqf day became truly national, as the Association of Zakat Operators in Nigeria (AZAWON) adopted it as a national celebration by all members.
“In 2025 alone our zakat disbursement of N29.734 million supported 41 cash beneficiaries, provided 21 deep freezers and 31 sewing machines, delivered 36 one-off education support and sustained 44 ongoing scholarships.
“In the last three years, zakat totaling N125.5 million reached 405 direct beneficiaries, while sadaqah mobilisation of N166.5 million impacted over 88,000 people.
“Today about N25 million will be distributed across the categories of zakat beneficiaries (Asnaal) according to the Quranic prescription Chapter nine verse 60,” hhe said.
Adeyemi said that in the Waqf Directorate, two hectares of land had been endowed as waqf, securing long-term benefit.
He said that it also reaffirmed the commitment to build permanent assets that will continue to serve the Ummah beyond yearly disbursements
“We invite and appeal to all of us present here to join us by endowing you property and wealth and see them work for you. We do not simply distribute funds, we build systems
“We combine zakat for immediate human need with waqf for sustainable development.
“This approach ensures continuity, transparency and lasting impact, and it is the reason partners continue to trust and work with Al-Habibiyyah.
“Today, we are officially commencing the raising of one billion Naira Waqf fund,” he said.
He said that the intention was to make it a yearly affair so as to build sustainable development in a structured way to make it a model for the generality of people and generations to come.
He said that Al-Habibiyyah remained open, accountable and eager to collaborate with individuals, institutions and organisations that share a vision of integrity, compassion and development.(NAN)
Edited by Deji Abdulwahab
