Potentials of Islamic Education in Alleviating Poverty in Nigeria

Abstract

The rate at which people wallow in poverty in almost all the nooks and crannies of the contemporary societies is a matter of concern that calls for serious and proactive attentions. In spite of the myriads of actions and measures taken to tackle poverty and economic problems in Nigeria, the consequential influences of poverty and economic flaws remain biting. This implies that for us to be at ease economically, every citizen must strive and look for all workable means that can help in alleviating poverty and combating the economic flaws in the society. It is against this background that this study was carried out to investigate the potential of Islamic education in alleviating poverty in our society. In carrying out the study, analytical method was adopted. Both print and electronic materials were consulted as sources of data. Some of the causes and effects of poverty among the masses were reviewed. It was revealed that poverty has plunged the society into series of political and socio-economic problems that have resulted to wars, conflicts, chaos, disunity and insecurity. It was concluded in the study that Islamic education through the institutions of brotherhood, Zakah, Waqf, dignity of labour and principles of faith, action, reward and punishment and Halal and Haram would be instrumental in combating economic flaws and manage poverty in the society. In line with the findings of the study, it is recommended that leaf should be borrowed from principles of Islamic education in tackling poverty and other economic blemishes so as to pave way for improvement, progress and development in the economic spheres of the society.