Sani Dutsinma
The Kebbi State Ministry of Religious Affairs has disbursed ₦160 million in cash and grains worth over ₦10 million as Zakat to vulnerable persons across the state as part of efforts to alleviate poverty and support disadvantaged members of society.
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The State Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Alhaji Sani Aliyu, disclosed this during an Inter-Ministerial Press Briefing held at the Ministry of Information and Culture, Bola Ahmed Tinubu Ultra-Modern State Secretariat in Birnin Kebbi.
According to the commissioner, the cash and food items were distributed in accordance with Islamic principles governing Zakat, as prescribed in the Holy Qur’an, to ensure that assistance reached those most in need.
He added that the ministry also implemented a Productive Zakat Programme under which small-scale business owners received grants of ₦500,000 each to strengthen their businesses and promote economic self-reliance.
Alhaji Aliyu explained that the Ministry of Religious Affairs was established in 2023 by Governor Nasir Idris in fulfilment of one of his campaign promises, describing the move as a demonstration of the governor’s commitment to promoting religious harmony and moral development.
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He said the governor created the ministry to ensure the effective management of religious affairs, provide equal opportunities for adherents of all faiths, address moral decadence, and build a morally upright society in Kebbi State.
The commissioner noted that the ministry serves both Muslim and Christian communities, stressing that the administration is committed to fairness, inclusiveness, and peaceful coexistence among all religious groups in the state.
Speaking on the role of Sharia, Alhaji Aliyu said the legal system is intended to protect the rights, dignity, and reputation of every citizen while promoting justice and social order.
He commended Governor Idris for providing the ministry with the necessary support and resources to enable it to effectively discharge its responsibilities.
The commissioner further revealed that the creation of the Ministry of Religious Affairs fulfilled a demand that had been made by residents of the state for more than three decades.
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He also disclosed that the state government cleared an outstanding debt of about ₦18 million, which had previously prevented Christian pilgrims from Kebbi State from participating in pilgrimage activities, describing the intervention as part of the administration’s commitment to ensuring equal opportunities for all citizens regardless of religious affiliation.
Alhaji Aliyu reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to promoting religious harmony, supporting vulnerable groups, and implementing programmes that enhance social welfare and peaceful coexistence across Kebbi State.