The Nasfat Agency for Zakat and Sadaqat (NAZAS) distributed a total of N11.9 million to beneficiaries across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, while also funding the education of 152 pupils through the payment of their tuition fees.
The support initiative, implemented under the agency’s education and humanitarian assistance programme, is designed to aid vulnerable individuals and families experiencing economic hardship. The intervention reflects NAZAS’ dedication to enhancing social welfare and improving access to quality education for disadvantaged members of society.
Speaking during the disbursement exercise in Abuja, officials of the agency stated that the assistance reached different categories of beneficiaries, including pupils in need of educational support, small business operators seeking empowerment funds, and individuals experiencing financial difficulties.
According to the agency, education remains one of the strongest instruments for combating poverty and expanding opportunities for young people. The payment of school fees for 152 pupils was therefore intended to ensure that beneficiaries continue their education without disruption caused by financial constraints.
The agency observed that many parents and guardians have found it increasingly difficult to cover educational costs due to the prevailing economic situation. Consequently, the intervention is expected to reduce the financial burden on affected families and encourage children to remain enrolled in school.
Officials also explained that a portion of the funds was directed toward empowerment initiatives designed to help beneficiaries start or grow small businesses. The agency expressed optimism that the assistance would improve the economic well-being of recipients and support their journey toward financial self-sufficiency.
Some beneficiaries who attended the programme expressed appreciation to the organisation for the support. They described the intervention as both timely and meaningful, noting that it would help meet urgent financial obligations and enhance their standard of living.
Parents whose children received the school-fee assistance also praised the initiative, saying the support would allow their children to continue their education without interruption. They called on other charitable organisations and public-spirited individuals to back similar programmes that promote access to education.
Education stakeholders have consistently highlighted the need for joint efforts involving government institutions, private organisations, and non-governmental groups to tackle challenges limiting access to education in Nigeria. They maintain that scholarship programmes, school-fee support, and educational grants are vital in reducing school dropout rates.
Analysts believe that interventions such as the NAZAS programme will strengthen human capital development by giving children from low-income families the opportunity to remain in school and achieve their educational aspirations.
The agency reaffirmed its resolve to sustain initiatives that promote education, empowerment, healthcare, and other humanitarian services. It also encouraged affluent individuals and members of the public to continue supporting charitable programmes aimed at improving the welfare of vulnerable people across the country.
The programme was described as a significant step toward advancing educational development and social inclusion, especially at a period when many families are grappling with economic challenges.
