COMMUNIQUÉ ISSUED AT THE END OF THE CONGRESS OF THE NUJ, SOKOTO STATE COUNCIL, HELD ON SAT,
23RD MAY, 2026
By Bashir Rabe Mani in Sokoto
The Congress of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Sokoto State Council, held on Saturday, 23rd May, 2026, received a detailed presentation from the Chairman of the Sokoto State Zakat and Waqf Board, Malam Lawal Maidoki, on the topic: “The Role of Zakat and Waqf in Poverty Alleviation and Humanitarian Service: The Responsibility of the Media.”
In his presentation, Malam Maidoki encouraged Muslims to remain committed to the payment of Zakat, describing it as an important instrument for reducing poverty and supporting the less privileged in society.
He further explained that Zakat and Waqf are key Islamic principles aimed at promoting social justice, compassion, wealth redistribution, and humanitarian support for vulnerable members of society.
He highlighted the importance of Waqf as a vital Islamic endowment system that promotes sustainable social welfare, economic empowerment, and humanitarian support within society.
He explained that Waqf serves as a long-term charitable investment through which individuals dedicate assets such as land, buildings, farms, or financial resources for the benefit of the public and the pleasure of Allah.
Maidoki noted that the institution of Waqf plays a significant role in supporting education, healthcare services, mosques, orphanages, water supply projects, and assistance to vulnerable members of society, thereby contributing to poverty alleviation and community development.
He urged the media to intensify enlightenment campaigns aimed at educating the public on the spiritual, social, and economic value of Waqf in national development.
Congress extensively deliberated on issues of public concern and resolved as follows:
1. SECURITY
Congress commended the Sokoto State Government for its continued support to security agencies in efforts aimed at addressing security challenges affecting parts of the state and the wider region.
Congress particularly appreciated the approval granted by the State Government for the procurement of additional vehicles to strengthen security logistics and improve operational response capacity.
Congress specifically acknowledged the procurement of a total of 25 units of 2024 Toyota Hilux vehicles, with 10 allocated to community-based security outfits and 15 to conventional security agencies in the state.
2. SOKOTO–GUSAU ROAD
Congress drew attention to the condition of the Sokoto–Gusau Road, a major route linking Sokoto and Zamfara States, and noted the difficulties being experienced by commuters, transporters, and other road users.
While acknowledging the ongoing efforts of the Federal Government, Congress respectfully appealed for accelerated action towards the rehabilitation and completion of the road in view of its strategic importance to transportation, commerce, and regional connectivity.
3. POWER SUPPLY
Congress observed the ongoing distribution of prepaid meters to consumers by Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO) and stressed the need to ensure that the initiative translates into meaningful benefits for consumers.
However, Congress noted with concern the persistent challenges associated with power supply in many parts of Sokoto State and appealed to the relevant authorities to intensify efforts towards improving electricity supply in order to support businesses, economic activities, and the general wellbeing of residents.
Signed:
Usman Mohammed Binji
Chairman
Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Sokoto State Council
Muhammad Nasir Bello
Secretary
