From Femi Mustapha in Kaduna
Professor Ahmad Bello Dogarawa of the Department of Accounting, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria has revealed that 129 million Nigerians currently live in poverty, with 29 million falling into this category within the past year, according to the World Bank’s September 2024 report.
He highlighted the alarming rate of multidimensional poverty in Nigeria, standing at 63%, alongside an income poverty rate of 40%.
In his keynote address during the 9th Triennial Congress of the Ansar-UD-Deen Society of Nigeria held in Kaduna, Prof. Dogarawa noted that the majority of the world’s multidimensional poor reside in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia.
He emphasized that the Muslim population, which comprises 54% of Nigeria’s demographic, faces significant challenges, particularly in northern states where poverty rates are critically high.
Prof. Dogarawa stated that Muslims have historically contributed to Nigeria’s economic development but face challenges such as wealth concentration and economic wastefulness.
He urged the community to pursue legitimate means of livelihood, reinforcing that the teachings of Islam advocate for self-sufficiency and discourage idleness.
The President of the Ansar-UD-Deen Society, Dr. Abdulrafiu Sanni, represented by Alhaji Iskeel Yusuf, expressed concern over the economic struggles facing the Muslim community and called for comprehensive initiatives focused on education and entrepreneurship.
He emphasized the need for community solidarity and support for social welfare programs.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Northern States Council of the Society, Alhaji Najeem Yasin, asked Nigerian citizens to be patient and pray for the current government to succeed in its economic reforms.
Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, represented by Attorney General Justice Sule Shuibu, commended the Society’s commitment to community empowerment and assured continued state support for initiatives aimed at reducing poverty and promoting economic stability.
The congress concluded with a call for renewed dedication to addressing economic challenges through both spiritual and practical measures, aiming to build a prosperous and supportive community aligned with Islamic values.
