Existence of Waqfs Without Waqf Institution in the Sokoto Caliphate: Contemporary Challenge for Northern Nigeria

Abstract

The paper examines, from a historical context, Hausa culture as the foundation of the social and economic life of the Sokoto caliphate that succeeded Hausa states. The general purpose of the paper is to determine the existence of waqf institution from that examination since philanthropy, including donating waqf (Islamic endowment), is rooted in a people’s culture. Documentary analysis of books, thesis and online articles was used for the study. Findings revealed that certain Hausa cultural beliefs and practices contributed to the nonexistence of waqf as an institution in the caliphate and that created an institutional-vacuum in the waqf culture of Muslims in contemporary Northern Nigeria. This vacuum presents a challenge that should be overcome through ways that include introducing philanthropy education, with emphasis on waqf, at all levels of education in the region.