Zakat Commissioner urges Dambam Emirate to establish endowment for the less privileged

By Yahuza Yahaya Doka:

The Dambam Emirate has been urged to establish an endowment (Waqf) to support less privileged members of society and promote community development.

The Commissioner for Zakat and Endowment at the Bauchi State Sharia Commission, Yakubu Abubakar Gero, made the call while highlighting the importance of endowment projects, including the construction of schools and hospitals, provision of scholarships, planting of economic trees and construction of wells.

He explained that widespread support for Waqf initiatives would reduce overdependence on government, while urging Muslims to pay Zakat as at when due.

He added that those who refuse to fulfil their Zakat obligations could face sanctions.

In his remarks, the Mufti of Dambam, Dr Tijjani Lawal, pledged to emulate the Zakat practices of the Prophet Muhammad and revive the collection and distribution of Zakat in the emirate.

He also called on relevant stakeholders, particularly district heads, to establish a committee to ensure effective collection and distribution of Zakat.

In his preaching, Imam Mu’azu Idris Guyyaba emphasized the importance of engaging in good deeds that benefit fellow Muslims and attract rewards in the Hereafter.

Responding, the Emir of Dambam, Alhaji Idris Bappah Musa, pledged to intensify public sensitisation on Zakat, noting that many people in northern Nigeria lack adequate knowledge of its importance.

He called on Islamic preachers to educate their followers on the significance of giving Zakat and fulfilling their religious obligations.

The Emir reaffirmed the emirate’s commitment to supporting Zakat and Waqf activities, stressing that societal development requires collective responsibility and urging everyone to contribute towards achieving that goal.