AZAWON hails Dangote for donating 25% of wealth to Foundation

In a monumental act of philanthropy that has sent ripples across the nation, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest person, has donated 25% of his personal wealth to the Dangote Foundation.…

In a press release on Thursday, the Association of Zakat and Waqf Operators in Nigeria (AZAWON), hailed the donation as an unprecedented commitment to national development.

The foundation is renowned for its interventions in health, nutrition, education, and economic empowerment across Nigeria.

In its official statement, AZAWON, the premier body overseeing Islamic charitable endowments and almsgiving, commended Dangote for his “extraordinary philanthropy” and “selfless act.” The association emphasized that the massive infusion of funds would directly “benefit vulnerable communities and drive development across Nigeria.”

“We applaud Alhaji Aliko Dangote’s commitment to giving back and inspiring others to follow suit,” the statement read. It was jointly signed by the National Chairman, Muhammad Lawal Maidoki and the National Secretary, Prof. Aliyu Dahiru Muhammad (Sadaukin Sakkwato).

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The donation aligns with the Islamic principles of Zakat (obligatory almsgiving) and Sadaqah (voluntary charity), which AZAWON promotes. By channeling a significant portion of his wealth through a structured foundation, Dangote ensures the sustainable and strategic distribution of resources to tackle poverty, malnutrition, and lack of access to basic services.

Analysts suggest this move could set a new benchmark for philanthropy among high-net-worth individuals in Africa. The Dangote Foundation has been at the forefront of several key initiatives, including the fight against polio and malnutrition, and the construction of health facilities. This colossal donation is expected to expand these projects exponentially and potentially fund new, large-scale developmental programs.

The donation is seen not just as a financial boost but as a powerful statement of faith in Nigeria’s future and a model of using private wealth for monumental public good.