Dabbagh Welfare Trust and The Companion Mobilise Support for Families to Mark Eid-el-Fitri in Lagos
In a collaborative effort to alleviate the burdens of fasting during Nigeria's economic challenges, the Dabbagh Welfare Trust and The Companion have provided essential supplies to families in Lagos. The initiative, aimed at easing food insecurity, saw 500 families gather at the Agege Sports Centre to receive comprehensive food packages and cash grants, marking a significant humanitarian outreach as Eid-el-Fitri approaches.
Expanding Humanitarian Reach Across Nigeria
This partnership between the UK-based Dabbagh Welfare Trust and The Companion, an association of Nigerian Muslim professionals, has now reached an estimated 1,500 individuals nationwide since its inception in December. The programme was initiated by London-based Imam Sheikh Mohammed Mahmoud following a visit to Nigeria late last year, where he identified a need for structured food bank interventions.
Mallam Mustafa Shafi'i, Operations Manager of The Companion's Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation, explained that the partnership was conceived to explore ways of supporting vulnerable Muslims through systematic aid. Speaking at the Agege distribution point, Shafi'i noted that the project, now in its third phase, began during the month of Rajab and has spanned the entire spiritual calendar leading into Ramadan.
Essential Supplies and Theological Mission
Each family received a substantial kit including 25kg of rice, 10kg of beans, 10kg of garri, vegetable oils, palm oil, tomato paste, and dates. Shafi'i emphasised that the mission intertwines theology with logistics, arguing that faith propagation cannot be separated from physical welfare. "Individuals struggling to meet basic needs are less likely to engage meaningfully with religious teachings," he stated.
Dr Rafiu Alabi, Executive Secretary of The Companion, highlighted that the intervention ensures needy families have sufficient food to celebrate Sallah with ease. He added that collaboration with a UK sponsor underscores the credibility and trust the Nigerian organisation has built in managing international donor funds. "The timing of the distribution is critical. With Eid el-Fitr approaching, a period marked by communal feasting, the rising cost of living has left many families concerned about their ability to observe the holiday with dignity," Alabi remarked.
Relief for Beneficiaries and Future Plans
For recipients like Soyeye Aminah from Oshodi, the assistance provides a rare moment of relief in a tightening economy. "Given the difficult economic situation, this initiative is very timely. It ensures that we have something to eat during and after Eid. It brings relief and joy to our families," she said. Beyond dry goods, beneficiaries were also provided with transport fares to help them return home without incurring further debt.
While the current phase concludes with the end of Ramadan, organisers indicated plans to transform the appeal into a long-term humanitarian fixture. This move aims to shift beyond seasonal relief toward a permanent food bank model, ensuring sustained support for vulnerable communities in Nigeria.
