Administration Of Zakat And Poverty Alleviation Among The Muslims In Ilorin Metropolis, Kwara State, Nigeria

Abstract

Zakāt is avital institution in Islam. In most of the world Muslim societies, Zakāt is collected and disbursed in order to promote unity and reduce suffering. While attempts have been made to explain the institution of Zakāt, not much has been done in terms of research to link the impact of Zakāt on poverty reduction. It is within this context that the role of Zakāt on poverty alleviation in Ilorin metropolis, KwaraState,Nigeria was examined. The study employed descriptive survey research design. Data for the study were generated through primary and secondary sources. Questionnaire was designed to elicit information from the respondents. The data collected were analyzed through the qualitative method. Zakāt assisted in reducing poverty in Ilorin metropolis. Even though there is no perfect model for Zakāt administration, it is recommended that Zakāt committee and organizations in Ilorin should extend their services to all nooks and crannies of the country for easy collection and disbursement of Zakāt resources. Zakāt committees in Ilorin should embark on campaigns in the mass media and through organizing seminars and workshops. The government should reduce the burden of taxation so that more Muslims can afford to pay Zakāt to assist in reducing social problems, unemployment and poverty levels.