The Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation (ZSF) has wrapped up its 2025 Zakat Distribution Ceremony in Lagos, announcing a record-breaking disbursement of over ₦653 million to 2,821 beneficiaries across 28 states.

This milestone event, which also marked the foundation’s 25th anniversary, was celebrated as a testament to the power of community and charitable giving.

During the disbursement exercise, ZSF’s Executive Director, Prince Sulayman Olagunju, highlighted the significance of this year’s achievement.

“This stands as one of the highest annual disbursements in our 25-year history,” he stated.

He emphasized that the funds are not just a transfer of wealth but a fulfillment of a divine trust aimed at restoring dignity, hope and opportunity.

“The final distribution in Lagos alone saw ₦296.6 million given to 1,835 beneficiaries. The foundation’s efforts for 2025 focused on three key areas:

“The largest share of the funds, over ₦283.8 million, went to 1,818 individuals, supporting them in starting businesses and acquiring skills to achieve independence.

“A total of 611 beneficiaries received more than ₦53.5 million to help cover school fees and ensure children are not left behind due to poverty.

“Over ₦51.3 million was provided to 130 beneficiaries to assist with serious health challenges.”

Also, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Prof. Tajudeen Olawale Yusuf, urged the beneficiaries to use the funds wisely. “Let it be a seed that grows into self-reliance, dignity, and a brighter future for you and your families,” he said.

He also praised the foundation’s donors for their unwavering trust, which has enabled the organization to disburse over ₦3 billion in zakat and ₦2 billion in sadaqat over the last 25 years.

A notable achievement celebrated during the ceremony was the ZSF’s innovative Business Plan Competition, which has disbursed over ₦103 million to 208 young entrepreneurs over the past decade. Prince Olagunju noted that many of these businesses are now job creators, proving that zakat can be a powerful tool for moving people from dependency to self-sufficiency.

The event was attended by dignitaries including, GMD of Courteville Business Solutions Plc, Dr. Adebola Akindele Ismail, who chaired the occasion. Royal fathers, government officials, scholars, and volunteers, recognizing their crucial roles in the foundation’s success. Looking to the future, the ZSF announced plans to expand its reach beyond the 28 states covered this year, deepen empowerment initiatives, and strengthen its education and medical support programs.