A study on the role of waqf institutions towards youth empowerment for sustainable development goals in Yobe state, Nigeria

Abstract

Youth unemployment has been a significant concern and a pressing issue within many nations. It is essential that all countries prioritize youth empowerment to curtail national security concerns. Although the authorities of Nigeria have made various attempts to provide national security through empowerment programs since its independence, these efforts were not successful due to non-political will. This study explores the potential role of waqf in enhancing youth empowerment for sustainable development in Yobe State, Nigeria. Waqf is considered as a mechanism to achieve economic and social objectives, acting as a platform for entrepreneurship to enhance societal well-being. This study aims to provide the potential roles of waqf institutions to empower the youth and enhance the well-being of the population in Yobe State. This study employed a qualitative method of research, which includes descriptive, historical, analytical and evaluative approaches. This study found that there are numerous factors contributing to youth unemployment, insecurity, and other social vices in Yobe State, such as insufficient incentives in the agricultural sector, lack of vocational skills, the declining quality of the Nigerian education system, corruption, youth involvement in political violence, and high rates of school dropouts. The findings show the potentials of waqf institutions on youth empowerment in Yobe across various domains such as education, healthcare, entrepreneurship, and vocational training. This study concludes that waqf institutions have significantly contributed to youth empowerment in entrepreneurship, education, healthcare, and vocational skills, ultimately advancing the sustainable development goals in Yobe State. Finally, this study offers suggestions and recommendations for effective strategies in utilising waqf properties in the region. Keywords: Waqf, Youth Empowerment, Sustainable Development, Yobe State, Nigeria.