The IHSAN ZAKKA and WAQF Foundation (IZWAF) has officially commissioned an exclusive garden in Bagali village, located in the Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State.
The IZWAF coordinator, Hajiya Halima Abdullahi, disclosed that the 2.5-hectare farm was donated by a member of the Da’awa Women’s Group for the project.
She further explained that 909 different varieties of seedlings, including banana, mango, rice, and potatoes, have already been planted in the garden.
The project, she added, is expected to employ over 500 people, helping to reduce unemployment among the youth in the area.
Hajiya Hajara Yakubu Wanka, the Bauchi State Commissioner for Humanitarian and Disaster Control, lauded IZWAF for its commendable initiative.
She pledged the state government’s commitment to supporting the foundation in achieving its objectives, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in humanitarian efforts.
In his address, Professor Salisu Shehu, Vice-Chancellor of Istiqamah University Sumaila, encouraged IZWAF to transform the garden into an integrated farm, benefiting both humans and other inhabitants.
He urged the community to embrace charitable acts, including cash donations, planting trees, and other contributions that would yield long-term benefits.
Dignitaries
Representing former Bauchi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmadu Adamu Mu’azu, Dr. Kabiru Garba Illela expressed his delight with the innovation, particularly from a farmer’s perspective. He highlighted the importance of professional advice and adequate equipment in farming.
Dr. Mu’azu also made a significant donation to support the project, including 10 bump sprayers, one motorized slasher, and ₦500,000.
Former Bauchi State Governor, Muhammad Abdullahi Abubakar, represented by Alhaji Yusuf Abubakar, also commended IZWAF for its efforts.
He noted that the foundation’s work would significantly address various societal challenges.
Hajiya Halima also expressed gratitude to donors and religious leaders for their support, urging the Muslim community to follow the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (Peace be Upon Him) by giving WAQF, which she described as beneficial both in this life and the hereafter.
In his vote of thanks, the District Head of Galambi, Alhaji Shehu Adamu Jumba, prayed for the project’s sustainability and pledged to contribute seedlings next week for planting in the garden.
WAQF, in Islamic practice, involves the transfer of ownership rights over an asset, such as land or buildings, to serve public or charitable purposes, benefiting society and supporting various charitable activities.
