The Katsina State Zakat and Waqf Board has introduced a digital payment system for the distribution of zakat, marking a significant step toward improving transparency, efficiency, and accountability in the management of the Islamic welfare scheme in the state.
Chairman of the board, Dr. Ahmed Musa Abdullahi Filin Samji, disclosed the development while briefing journalists on ongoing reforms and activities of the board in Katsina.
He explained that the new digital platform would enable faster and more efficient disbursement of zakat funds, improve data management, and provide online access to information through a dedicated website.
According to him, the system will strengthen the confidence of both local and international donors by ensuring that zakat resources are distributed fairly and based on genuine need.
Dr. Filin Samji noted that the initiative would also prevent individuals from receiving multiple benefits, enhance transparency in the process, and encourage wider public participation in the zakat programme.
He said the reform comes at a time when financial transactions are increasingly shifting to digital platforms, stressing that the initiative would position Katsina among leading states in Nigeria with modern zakat administration practices.
The chairman therefore called on all stakeholders—including zakat payers, beneficiaries, government institutions, community leaders, and the general public—to support the reform drive of the board and the state government.
Dr. Filin Samji expressed optimism that with collective cooperation, Katsina State could become a model in Nigeria for a zakat administration system built on transparency, justice, and internationally recognised best practices, while fully complying with Islamic Sharia principles.
He added that independent organisations, institutions, and committees involved in zakat administration across the state would also benefit from the digital platform.
The chairman also commended Malam Dikko Umaru Radda for reviving and strengthening the Zakat Board as the statutory body responsible for the collection and distribution of zakat to the needy in line with Islamic teachings.
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