By Abdullahi Tukur
The Kebbi State Government has disbursed ₦160 million in cash and grains worth ₦10 million to vulnerable residents under its Zakat and Waqf programmes, as part of efforts to strengthen social welfare and support disadvantaged groups across the state.
The Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Arch. Mohammed Sani Aliyu, disclosed this during an Inter-Ministerial Press Briefing, explaining that the intervention was carried out in line with the provisions of the Holy Qur’an to provide relief to eligible beneficiaries.
He said the ministry also empowered small-scale business owners with ₦500,000 grants under its Productive Zakat Programme to help beneficiaries establish or expand their businesses and improve their livelihoods.
Ministry Established to Promote Religious Harmony
The commissioner recalled that the creation of the Ministry of Religious Affairs fulfilled a long-standing demand by residents, noting that previous administrations had been unable to establish the ministry despite repeated appeals.
According to him, Governor Nasir Idris created the ministry to improve the management of religious affairs, ensure fairness to all faiths, address moral challenges, and promote peaceful coexistence across Kebbi State.
He explained that the ministry continues to work with religious leaders and community stakeholders to foster mutual understanding and strengthen moral values in society.
Commissioner Explains Role of Sharia
Addressing public misconceptions, Arch. Aliyu said the principles of Sharia are designed to protect the rights, dignity and reputation of all members of society rather than deprive anyone of their lawful rights.
He stated that the legal framework encourages decency, moral discipline and peaceful living in accordance with religious teachings while promoting justice and social harmony.
Support for Christian Pilgrims
The commissioner disclosed that the state government also cleared an outstanding debt of about ₦18 million, enabling Christian pilgrims from Kebbi State to undertake their pilgrimage after years of delay.
He described the intervention as part of the administration’s commitment to ensuring equal opportunities for citizens regardless of religious affiliation.
Thousands Benefit from Welfare and Social Services
Arch. Aliyu said more than 20,000 mental health patients have received free medical care through the Zakat and Waqf Programme since the ministry was established.
He added that the ministry has also resolved 1,496 marriage and community disputes over the past three years, helping to strengthen family stability and peaceful coexistence across the state.
According to him, the ministry handled 114 cases involving pregnancy outside wedlock, nine cases of marriages contracted after pregnancy, and 132 cases involving girls allegedly kept by men without the consent of their parents.
He further revealed that officials addressed 27 cases involving women reportedly found in bushes under suspected spiritual influence, investigated 169 cases involving young and married women found in hotels and guest houses, and facilitated medical treatment for 43 mentally ill persons rescued from the streets.
Ramadan Feeding and Religious Capacity Building
The commissioner said the ministry’s annual Ramadan feeding programme provides meals to about 20,000 vulnerable people every day throughout the fasting period.
He added that the ministry regularly organises training and retraining programmes for imams and Islamic scholars to improve religious leadership while promoting interfaith dialogue, tolerance and peaceful coexistence among residents.
Why the Intervention Matters
The Kebbi State Government said the Zakat and Waqf initiatives form part of broader efforts to reduce poverty, strengthen social protection and promote inclusive development through faith-based welfare programmes. The Bureau Journal reports that the intervention also reflects the administration’s commitment to supporting vulnerable residents while encouraging community harmony and responsible religious engagement.
Get breaking news and latest updates directly on WhatsApp
