Stakeholders at the event collectively extolled the Foundation, which was founded in 2021 for the laudable initiative, calling for more partnerships between government and NGOs to ensure children stay in school and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s future.
By Umar Adeleye and Zaynab Olasupo
The Zakat and Sadaqat (Z&S) Waqf Foundation has extended support to pupils of Shepherd Primary School in Shomolu Local Government Area, Lagos, through its Back-to-School project, aimed at easing the burden of vulnerable families and boosting school enrollment.
The official presentation of the items was held on Tuesday, September 16 at the school premises in the Obanikoro area of Lagos State.
Muslim News gathered that essential items distributed by the Foundation included school bags, uniforms, writing materials, sandals, among others.
Addressing the elated pupils and the management of the private school, the Executive Director of the foundation, Alhaji Maruf Ahmed, said the Back-to-School project was inspired by empathy and the desire to give back to society.
He explained that the project aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and complements government efforts in expanding access to education.
“With the current economic hardship, we need to put succour and smile on the faces of the poor,” Alhaji Ahmed said, adding that, “We have provided school bags, uniforms, exercise books, and footwears worth about ₦1.5 million to ₦1.6 million for 50 pupils. Though the school has just over 100 pupils, we believe this gesture is significant and we hope to do more.”
According to him, Waqf projects do not only benefit Muslims, as they are for public good.
The Headteacher of Shepherd Primary School, Mrs. Nuratu Animashaun expressed gratitude to the foundation for what she described as an intervention that would not only assist parents but also improve enrolment for the 2025/2026 academic session.
“By doing this, you are helping society, reducing crime, and taking children off the streets,” she said. “We appreciate this memory you have given our pupils and hope you return next year to reach even more children.”
The Chief of Staff to Shomolu LGA, Prince Adeeso Sodiq praised the foundation’s contribution, noting that with over six million Nigerian children out of school, such interventions are timely. He highlighted the quality of items distributed and their impact on children’s self-esteem and future.
“This is not just about gifts,” Prince Adeeso said. “It is about giving indigent pupils their needs. Automatically, it brings happiness, raises their self-esteem, and gives them hope for a brighter future.”
Similarly, Olajide Jacob, from the Social Mobilisation section of Shomolu LGA, commended the initiative and urged more NGOs to partner with local governments in supporting schools across the state.
Some pupils also voiced their appreciation to the Foundation. Macknor Amen, a beneficiary, said: “May God continue to provide for and enrich the foundation to do even more for others like us.”
Another pupil, Muhammad Ummi, added: “I feel very happy about this generous support. May Almighty God bless them in all their endeavours.”
Stakeholders at the event collectively extolled the Foundation, which was founded in 2021 for the laudable initiative, calling for more partnerships between government and NGOs to ensure children stay in school and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s future.
Waqf is an instrument under Islamic social finance that we can use to bring public good, be it hospital, school, businesses, community development, welfare and other things that can impact positively.
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