By Deji Abdulwahab
The Mission for Education, Social and Health (MESH) says no fewer than 1,600 indigent and vulnerable individuals and families have benefited from its charitable (Zakat) distribution programme.
The Chief Executive Officer of MESH, Dr Aminu Hayatu, disclosed this on Monday at the second edition of the organisation’s Zakat Distribution Programme in Abuja.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that MESH, a subsidiary non-governmental organisation under the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), distributed cash and working tools to beneficiaries as part of the empowerment initiative.
The items distributed include refrigerators, tailoring and grinding machines, Point of Sale (POS) machines, and other income-generating equipment.
Hayatu said the organisation worked with various groups, agencies, and partners to identify eligible beneficiaries for the empowerment programme.
He added that the selection process was designed to be transparent and accountable.
“We identify vulnerable groups such as widows, persons with disabilities, and those who are economically disadvantaged.
“We also developed a monitoring and evaluation framework to follow up on beneficiaries and assess how they are utilising the support provided, as well as offer guidance where necessary,” he said.
He explained that the second edition of the programme was a public distribution designed to encourage existing donors and attract new partners to support humanitarian efforts.
“This is the second public distribution. We also carry out non-public distributions, but this edition is symbolic because we want to encourage existing donors and attract new ones to continue supporting the vulnerable in society,” he said.
He further noted that the initiative goes beyond cash distribution, stressing that beneficiaries are also given tools to help them become economically self-reliant.
“We want beneficiaries to move from dependency to productivity so that, over time, they can also contribute to society,” he added.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of MESH, Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo, said the institution of Zakat occupies a central place in Islam.
Oladejo, who was represented by Prof. Salisu Sheu, MESH’s Overseer and Deputy Secretary-General of NSCIA, described Zakat as a divine obligation aimed at promoting equity and reducing poverty.
“Zakat is not merely an act of charity; it is a divine obligation designed to promote equity, reduce poverty, and strengthen social cohesion,” he said.
“Through Zakat, wealth circulates within the community, ensuring that those blessed with abundance support those facing hardship,” he added.
He noted that the first edition of the programme was held in the Federal Capital Territory, Jigawa, and Ogun States, reaching more than 1,000 beneficiaries, while the current edition focused on residents of the FCT.
According to him, the programme is aimed not only at providing financial assistance but also at restoring dignity and empowering beneficiaries to overcome economic challenges.
He expressed appreciation to donors and partners whose contributions made the initiative possible, adding that the programme would be sustained annually.
“As can be seen, it is not just about giving cash; beneficiaries are also given tools that empower them economically so they do not remain dependent,” he said.
“We hope that by the next edition, many of today’s beneficiaries will be in a position to support others, even if not through Zakat, but through voluntary charity.”
Also speaking, the Chairman of the occasion, Muhammad Maidoki, said Nigeria could reduce poverty greatly if charitable giving is properly institutionalised.
He called for the strengthening of Zakat, Waqf, and other forms of donations as tools for addressing insecurity and economic challenges.
In his remarks, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, commended MESH for its sustained commitment to supporting vulnerable members of society.
Fagbemi, who was represented by Hajiya Medinah Hassan, Assistant Chief State Counsel, said the initiative had contributed to addressing education, social, and health challenges.
“As we witness the distribution of support to deserving beneficiaries, we are reminded of our collective responsibility to build a society where no one is left behind,” he said.
“Through acts of charity and solidarity, we can help create opportunities for families and young people to live with hope, dignity, and purpose.” (NAN) www.nannews.ng
Edited by Tosin Kolade
