Musa Na Allah, Sokoto
The Chairman of the Sokoto State Zakkat and Endowment Commission, Malam Muhammad Lawal Maidoki, announced on Wednesday that the agency has successfully slaughtered 3,000 cows as part of the ongoing Qurbani (sacrificial) exercise for the year.
The exercise, which is still underway, is expected to cover a total of 4,500 cows, generously sponsored by the Darul Erkam Foundation, Sulaimaniyyah Relief Association, Diversity, and the Government of Turkey.
Speaking at a press conference in Sokoto, Malam Maidoki expressed gratitude to the foreign partners for their continued trust and support in uplifting the vulnerable in Sokoto and beyond through acts of charity.
He specifically appreciated the Sokoto State Government under the leadership of Governor Dr. Ahmad Aliyu for its unwavering support and facilitation, which he said played a critical role in the success of the Qurbani program.
Maidoki also extended his heartfelt thanks to individuals, communities, and groups, as well as the numerous staff and volunteers who dedicated their time and efforts to make the project a reality.
While celebrating the achievement, the chairman also issued a sincere apology to those who may not have received a share of the sacrificial meat, urging affected individuals and communities to find forgiveness in their hearts.
According to him, the shortfall was due to unexpected supply issues and a shortage of sacrificial bulls from some suppliers, which the agency takes full responsibility for.
Despite these setbacks, the distribution reached thousands of beneficiaries across Sokoto State and the neighboring states of Kebbi and Zamfara, fulfilling the mission of bringing joy to underserved populations during the Eid period.
Maidoki noted that the significance of the Qurbani exercise goes beyond meat distribution. It contributes meaningfully to social welfare, peacebuilding, and economic circulation, especially in local communities.
He emphasized that the initiative aligns seamlessly with the “Nine-Point SMART Agenda” of the current administration in Sokoto State, which prioritizes human development and inclusive growth.
Looking ahead, the chairman pledged that the agency would implement proactive measures to avoid a recurrence of the logistical shortcomings encountered this year.
In a major development, Malam Maidoki revealed that the Sulaimaniyyah Relief Association, impressed by the transparency of the exercise and the integrity of the Sokoto Government, Sultanate Council, and people, has committed to further humanitarian projects in the state.
These include the construction of a school for 150 learners and the provision of boreholes in underserved rural communities across the historic seat of the Caliphate.
