…As Top Islamic Scholars, Academics, and Industry Titans make list
The Ibile Muslim Community Zakat and Sadaqah Foundation recently launched its new Technical Advisory and Compliance Committee, marking a significant step in strengthening its charitable initiatives. This newly formed committee will play a pivotal role in guiding the Foundation’s strategies, ensuring compliance, and enhancing the transparency and effectiveness of its Zakat and Sadaqah programs. With a diverse team of experts, including Islamic scholars, academics, and industry professionals, the committee is set to bring valuable insights that will help maximize the impact of the Foundation’s work across the community. This strategic move underscores the Foundation’s commitment to uplifting communities through structured, accountable, and impactful charitable activities.
According to a statement issued on Saturday, November 2, 2024, the newly inaugurated Technical Advisory and Compliance Committee of the Ibile Muslim Community Zakat and Sadaqah Foundation includes distinguished Islamic scholars, esteemed academics, and seasoned industry leaders. Each committee member brings a wealth of experience and deep expertise in Islamic knowledge, strengthening the Foundation’s mission of delivering impactful, ethical, and efficient community services. This diverse assembly of thought leaders is expected to guide and uphold the Foundation’s vision, ensuring its charitable efforts align with both Islamic principles and modern best practices. A copy of the statement was shared with The DEFENDER.
The newly formed Technical Advisory and Compliance Committee of the Ibile Muslim Community Zakat and Sadaqah Foundation comprises an impressive lineup of experts from academia, industry, and Islamic scholarship. Among its distinguished members are Professor Abd Razak Alaro from the University of Ilorin, Dr. Basheer Oshodi, CEO of ArthurTrust, and Professor Abdul Kabir Paramole of Lagos State University. Also joining are Professor Luqman Zakariyah of the University of Abuja, Professor Luqman Adedeji from the University of Lagos, and Mrs. Sarwi Rahaman, Head of Public Sector Sales at Airtel Nigeria. Other key figures include Mrs. Saidat Otiti, founder of Baytuzeenah Limited; Imam Maruf Okusanya, a senior lecturer at Dar-ud-Dawah Islamic School; and Dr. Umar Oseni, Secretary General of the OIC Arbitration Center. This accomplished committee is poised to steer the Foundation’s initiatives, drawing on each member’s deep expertise to enhance community outreach and uphold ethical standards in its charitable work.
In his welcome address, Sheikh Sulaimon Abou-Nolla, the Chief Imam of Lagos and Chairman of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees, urged the newly appointed committee members to apply their extensive expertise and knowledge in guiding the Foundation’s mission. Sheikh Abou-Nolla expressed confidence in the group’s ability to elevate the Foundation’s work, challenging them to contribute meaningfully to its goals of impactful, accountable, and faith-driven community service.
While reassuring the general public of the foundation’s commitment to implementing the aims and objectives of the foundation to the fullest, Sheikh Abou-Nolla seized the opportunity to thank the Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty Oba Rilwan Akiolu I, Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Deputy Governor, Dr Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat, Senator Tokunboh Abiru and other well meaning individuals whom have been supporting the foundation since inception
Secretary to the Foundation’s Board of Trustees, Engr Nasir Giwa, said the technical advisory and compliance committee was saddled with the responsibilities of supporting the operation and governance of the Ibile Muslim Community Zakat and Sadaqah Foundation amongst other terms of references.
The inauguration, which was conducted virtually on zoom, had in attendance Professor Muritala Aderemi Bidmos, who was also the keynote speaker for the occasion.
In his address, Professor Muritala highlighted the importance of the organization, stating how it came into existence at a time when zakat foundations had been saturated.
He lauded the efforts of individuals and organizations who take it upon themselves to be the ambassadors of the change we desire in the Muslim communities.
Throwing some questions to the audience, he asked “if zakat, sadaqah and waqf can be used to help out-of-school children, if the level of poverty has been alleviated among the Muslim Ummah, what method are used in the collection and distribution of zakat and most importantly, how many Muslims do we have in the banking and legal sector? These questions are meant to serve as guidelines for the technical committees.”
He further reiterated the goal of the Foundation, which is to serve Allah through diligent management of the 3 institutions i .e Zakat, Sadaqah and Waqf. Using the Qur’an as a reference point, Professor Bidmos said, “The rationale behind these 3 institutions is to
“- prevent undue concentration and stagnation of the wealth in a few hands (Q7v59)
“- make Muslims aware that their wealth is increasing and expanding by paying Zakat or giving Sadaqah and Waqf. ( Q30v39)
“- emphasize the fact that what is given to the recipients as listed in the Qur’an is
their right and not a favour. (Q51v 19)
“- recognize the fact that the wealth from which Zakat or Sadaqah is taken is Allah’s wealth simply put in the custody of the paying Muslim as a trust. (Q57v7)
“- to take cognizance of the potency of Zakat in promoting affection and brotherhood among Muslims. (Q48v29).”
It should be noted at this juncture that the Ibile Muslim Community Zakat and Sadaqah Foundation is a dedicated Islamic organization committed to supporting those in need and enhancing social and economic empowerment across the Muslim community. Focused on upholding Islamic principles of charity and social welfare, the Foundation channels resources to uplift the less fortunate, foster sustainable development, and drive impactful change that improves lives and strengthens the community’s well-being.
Guided by the teachings of the Qur’an and Sunnah, the Ibile Muslim Community Zakat and Sadaqah Foundation upholds a core belief in the equality of all people before Allah. The Foundation takes pride in embodying these values, carrying out its mission with a commitment to justice, compassion, and unity, while striving to bridge social gaps and uplift the entire Muslim community with dignity and respect for all.
The momentous event was attended by esteemed members of the Board of Trustees of the Foundation, along with a host of other prominent figures within the Muslim community. Their presence underscored the significance of the occasion, as they gathered to support the Foundation’s initiatives and contribute to the collective mission of uplifting those in need.
To cap it all, Professor Muritala emphasized that the Ibile Zakat and Sadaqah Foundation recognizes the importance of enlisting the support of distinguished individuals with the necessary expertise in finance and zakat management. By seeking guidance from these highly regarded professionals, the Foundation aims to enhance its operations and ensure that its charitable efforts are both effective and aligned with best practices in the field.
