Awareness and Knowledge of Zakat in Healthcare Accessibility in Ilorin West Local Government Area, Kwara State, Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: This study assesses the awareness, knowledge, attitude, and practice of Zakat as a mechanism for healthcare financing among adults in Ilorin West Local Government Area, Kwara State, Nigeria.

Aim: This study assesses the awareness, knowledge, and practices of Zakat in healthcare access and financing among adults in Ilorin West Local Government Area.

Methodology: A cross-sectional survey design was employed, using a structured questionnaire and semi-structured interviews to collect data from 384 respondents selected through multistage sampling. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze quantitative data, while thematic analysis was applied to qualitative responses.

Results: The results revealed that only 49.5% of respondents were aware that Zakat could be used to finance healthcare, while 50.5% were unaware. Knowledge of Zakat’s technical aspects was limited: just 41.6% knew the obligatory Zakat rate (2.5%), and only 45.3% understood the eligibility criteria (nisab). Although 54.6% supported using Zakat to cover hospital bills for the poor, and 39% had donated Zakat for health-related causes. Key barriers included lack of awareness (58.6%), difficulty in accessing funds (65.8%), and cultural stigma (40.3%). Respondents expressed strong support for institutional reforms, such as digitizing Zakat management (46.8%) and integrating health professionals into Zakat committees (49.4%).

Conclusion: The study concludes that while there is moderate support for Zakat’s role in healthcare financing, significant gaps in awareness, knowledge, and practice hinder its effective utilization.