Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation (ZSF) said it has spent N255,500,667 to empower and assist 3,199 people across the country.
Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Z&S Foundation, Prince Sulaiman Olagunju made this known during the Zakat Distribution Ceremony (ZDC) at the Lagos State Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Ikeja, Lagos.
The fund was used to uplift the less privileged through educational support for orphans, people with health challenges, economic support, care for widows and settling of debts, amongst others.
The disbursement, Olagunju said, was carried out in 19 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
According to him, over 60 per cent of the Zakat disbursed in the Lagos State was used for empowerment of the needy and poor members in various communities.
“Over 19 per cent was used to provide medical care to patients with different kinds of health challenges, while the rest was shared to rent accommodation, debt relief, educational support for the less privileged members in our midst,” he added.
He urged Muslims to continuing paying Zakat for the development of the society.
Chief Imam of Lagos State, Sheikh Sulaimon Oluwatoyin Abou-Nolla, commended ZSF for supporting both Muslim and non-Muslims.
Sheikh Abou-Nolla prayed that Allah should continue to strengthen the donors and the management.
He, however, sought for the harmonisation of zakat payment in the country, noting that efforts have been directed to implement a harmonized zakat payment system in Lagos State.
“We need to harmonise and make collective efforts. That’s how we can get resources to channel to various sectors of the economy. May Allah make it easy for us,” the revered cleric said.
One of the Christian beneficiaries, Madam Veronica Fagbami expressed happiness that she made the list.
According to her, “Since the death of my husband, no one has been there except God. When I came for the interview, I was told to pray to be among the beneficiaries. And today, I am grateful I am on the list. Though I requested money and grinding machine, I was given only the machine. I won’t sell it. I will make judicious use of it.
“I pray Almighty God will continue to strengthen the Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation. Their donors will continue to be blessed. Their organisation shall rise in leaps and bounds.”