By Shina Abubakar, Osogbo

The Zakat and Sadaqat foundation has distributed N42,948,414 million worth of empowerment equipment to the needy in Osun State.

In its 17th Zakat distribution ceremony and commemoration of International Widows’ Day held in Osogbo, 93 people benefited from the Zakat distribution.

In its three days programme which commenced at the weekend with awareness programme in some selected Mosques, the foundation held a senior citizen support programme for 25 selected old people in Ikirun, Ifelodun local government.

Medical tests were conducted while drugs, foodstuffs and cash were distributed.

This year Zakat distribution involved debt relieve, education scholarship, empowerment with grinding machine, sewing machine and distribution of 47kg gas cylinder.

The state coordinator of Zakat and Sadaqat foundation, Asimiyu Abdusalam, urged Muslims to change their mindset that they can not pay Zakat until they have up to N100 million, saying “Sadakat is for every Muslims to circulate wealth and to put smile in the face of the needy.”

The chairman of the occasion, Alhaji Abdufattah Adebayo, said the purpose of Zakat is to support those in the community who are most in need.

“The Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation, through its unwavering commitment, continues to embody the true essence of Islamic charity, ensuring that the blessings of wealth are shared and that no one is left behind.

“Zakat is not merely charity; it is purification of our wealth and a means of uplifting the vulnerable among us, supporting widows, orphans, and the needy. It is a duty that strengthens our community and earns us Allah’s mercy.

“Let us remember that wealth is a trust, and life itself is temporary. What we give sincerely for Allah’s sake will remain with us in the Hereafter, while what we hoard will perish,” Adebayo said.

He commended Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation for their tireless efforts in organizing the program, saying “we are not just distributing Zakat; we are extending a hand of hope, a gesture of solidarity, and a promise of support to our widows and vulnerable members of the community.”