The IBILE Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation has disbursed N85.5 million to 400 beneficiaries in a significant effort to support economic empowerment, education, and healthcare within the Muslim community.
The disbursement took place during the 2025 Ramadan Lecture and Zakat Distribution Ceremony, held in Lagos, where prominent Islamic scholars and leaders gathered to emphasize the importance of charity in Islam.
Muslim News gathered that the event also served as a moment to honour the late Prof. Murtala Aderemi Bidmos, a respected Islamic scholar and immediate past Chief Imam of the University of Lagos whose contributions to the foundation left a lasting impact.
How Beneficiaries Were Selected
Speaking on the selection process, Abdul Hameed Ademola Danmole, Secretary of the IBILE Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation Beneficiaries Screening Committee, explained that a thorough and inclusive approach was taken.
“A form was printed and distributed through the League of Imams and Alfas, while an online version was made available to reach other underprivileged Nigerians. After the deadline, we carefully collated applications and selected beneficiaries based on set parameters. We ensured equal representation across Lagos five divisions,” he said.
Breakdown of N85.5 Million Disbursement
The disbursement covered three areas: Economic Empowerment (support for 50 traders and artisans), Educational Support (scholarships for 250 students across undergraduate, MSc, and PhD levels), and Healthcare Initiatives (health insurance for 100 senior Imams).
Danmole assured that this was only the first phase, with further disbursements expected before the end of the year.
Zakat and Sadaqat eradicate poverty, strengthen social bonds: Senator Abiru
In his keynote address, Senator Mikail Adetokunbo Abiru described Zakat and Sadaqat as transformative pillars of Islam that uplift not just individuals but entire societies.
“In a world where inequalities persist, acts of kindness and charity serve as beacons of hope. Zakat is not just a financial obligation but also a purification of wealth, ensuring equitable distribution,” he stated.
He praised the IBILE Foundation for its transparent and accountable approach to Zakat collection and distribution.
“When you collect Zakat privately and distribute it publicly, that is responsibility and accountability. This initiative dignifies mankind, and I encourage more people to contribute to its sustainability,” he added.
Zakat can reduce poverty if properly practised: Sheikh Onikijipa
Guest speaker Sheikh Faruq Onikijipa, the Grand Mufti of Ilorin, clarified the difference between Zakat and Sadaqat, emphasizing that Zakat is a compulsory act of worship.
“Islam is built on five pillars, and Zakat is one of them. Allah repeatedly commands Muslims to give Zakat alongside performing Salat (prayer). It is a divine mechanism to prevent extreme poverty,” he said.
Quoting Surah Al-Baqarah (2:43), he noted that Zakat is meant for eight categories of beneficiaries, including the poor, the needy, those in debt, and stranded travelers.
“If wealthy Muslims strictly adhered to Zakat obligations, poverty would be significantly reduced. While we may still have those in need (Al-Masakeen), the truly poor (Al-Fuqara) would be minimal,” he added.
Sheikh Onikijipa commended IBILE for its timely Ramadan disbursement and urged givers to avoid showmanship in charity to maximize spiritual rewards.
Chief Imam of Lagos highlights Zakat’s spiritual rewards
The host, Sheikh Sulaimon Abou-Nolla, Chief Imam of Lagos, formally opened the event, stressing the spiritual and societal importance of Zakat and Sadaqat.
“Allah says in the Qur’an (2:261) that charity multiplies like a seed growing into hundreds of grains. The Prophet (PBUH) also stated that a believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his charity,” he reminded the audience.
Sheikh Abou-Nolla praised the IBILE Foundation for promoting Islamic values of knowledge, charity, and communal responsibility through its initiatives.
Special tribute to late Prof. Murtala Bidmos
The foundation took a moment to honour the late Prof. Murtala Aderemi Bidmos, a revered Islamic scholar and staunch advocate of Zakat and Sadaqat.
“His wisdom and dedication to Islamic charity work left a lasting impact. We pray Allah grants him eternal peace,” the organizers stated.
Appreciation for donors and supporters
The foundation expressed gratitude to its key supporters, acknowledging Dr. Kadiri Hamzat, Lagos State Deputy Governor, for his unwavering backing; Senator Tokunbo Abiru, a major donor whose generosity has been instrumental; Oba Rilwan Akiolu, the Olowo Eko, for his significant contributions; and Professor Rasheed Ojikutu, who led the Beneficiaries Screening Committee with dedication and diligence.
The event concluded with prayers for the beneficiaries, donors, and organizers, reinforcing the spirit of giving and social justice in Islam.
With this first phase of disbursement completed, the IBILE Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation remains committed to sustaining charitable efforts, alleviating poverty, and empowering communities in Lagos State and beyond.
