ZAKAT AS A TOOL FOR POVERTY ALLEVIATION IN JOS NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF PLATEAU STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Poverty remains a pressing issue, especially in underdeveloped and developing countries like Nigeria. Despite the country's diverse economic activities and efforts to reduce poverty, its effects persist. This paper aims to investigate the role played by Zakat, an obligatory form of charity in Islam, in poverty alleviation within the context of Jos North Local Government Area in Plateau State, Nigeria. The paper explores how Zakat is collected, managed, and distributed in the local government area. It also assesses the effectiveness of Zakat in poverty alleviation and its contribution to promoting socio-economic development. Additionally, this study examines the challenges and opportunities associated with Zakat fund management. A comprehensive analysis of the impact of Zakat on poverty alleviation in Jos North is conducted, employing both qualitative and quantitative methods, including surveys, interviews, and case studies. The findings of this study contribute to a better understanding of the potential of Zakat as a tool for addressing poverty in similar communities and inform policy recommendations for enhancing its impact.