By Uzair Adam
A total of 1,000 youths, women and less privileged persons have completed a six-week skills acquisition training in Kano, organised by Islah Consult and Training Limited in collaboration with Ar-Riddoh Islamic International Foundation and the Islamic Forum of Nigeria.
The training covered seven areas – solar installation and repair, tailoring, phone repairs, ICT, bedsheet production and catering – and was designed to give participants practical skills for self-reliance.
The Daily Reality reports that in an event on Tuesday in Kano, the Association of Zakat and Waqf Operators in Nigeria (AZAWON) distributed financial support to some of the graduates.
Speaking during the exercise, Prof. Dahiru Muhammad, Chairman of Islah Consult and Training Limited and National Secretary of AZAWON, said 500 graduates each received N50,000 as start-up capital.
“We wanted to ensure this support went only to those who were serious about the training. That is why we required them to present their certificates before receiving the money. It’s our way of encouraging commitment and accountability.”
He explained that the funds came from zakat contributions, notably from businessman Alhaji Ibrahim Sabi’u of Kantin Kwari market, as well as from AZAWON’s national body and Ja’iz Bank.
“Zakat is not just charity; it is a right ordained by Allah. We must use it strategically to lift people out of poverty,” Prof. Muhammad added.
According to him, 20 less privileged persons also received N30,000 each, while more than 45 others – including new converts to Islam – from Rano, Gaya and Karaye benefited from similar support.
He further urged beneficiaries to use the money wisely, saying, “We will follow up. We want to see success stories, not wasted opportunities.”
Prof. Muhammad also called on the government to promote zakat and waqf in the same way it handles tax collection, saying, “It is a duty from Allah, mentioned in the Qur’an. If properly managed, zakat can address many of our social challenges.”
Alhaji Ibrahim Sabi’u Linda, who contributed to the fund, said giving zakat brought him fulfilment.
“I am happier than the recipients because I know I have done what Allah commanded,” he said.
He further noted that, “if the government can bring together wealthy traders from markets like Kantin Kwari, Singer, Wambai and Dawanau, and direct their zakat towards youth empowerment, I believe crimes like phone snatching will drastically reduce.”
One of the beneficiaries, Nafi’u Isa, who trained in ICT, expressed gratitude for both the skills and the financial support.
“This has opened a new chapter in my life. We pray Allah blesses our businesses so that one day, we can also give back,” he said.
Another beneficiary, Nafisa Tahir, who learned tailoring, said she never imagined she would receive such assistance.
“When I came here, I didn’t even know how to use a sewing machine. Now, Alhamdulillah, I can sew bedsheets that will impress you,” she said with a smile.