Prospects of Poverty Alleviation through Zakat and Waqf in Islam: Lessons for Northern Nigeria

Abstract

Northern Nigeria is a Muslim dominated part of
the country. Despite all the resources committed by the
government in pursuit of achieving Zakat and Waqf noble
objectives and different policies, embarked upon to combat
poverty in the country, the realization remains a mirage in
Northern Nigeria. The effectiveness of the various methods
chosen in bringing about the changes has remained a
question begging for answer. However, This paper, in an
effort to explore opportunities, avenues and policies for
making positive contributions to national development has
posited that, through Zakah and Waqf every individual in the
society is assured of minimum means of livelihood, The
potential roles of two Islamic institutions; Zakat and Waqf
in poverty eradication are herein discussed as well as how
Islam uses them among others to achieve the goals. The
paper attempts to define a new approach to poverty
analysis and suggests a way to make the role of Zakat and
Waqf more effective in the poverty reduction. The paper
is analytical with presentation based on survey of relevant
literature, with a view of adding to existing literature as well
as synthesizing opposing views on the socio-economic role
of Zakah and Waqf, also the process of their revitalization in
the modern time. It concludes with other useful suggestions and recommendations for Nigerian Government and
Muslims especially the Northern part.