Community Perception of Waqf (Islamic Endowment) as a Tool for Social Development in Kano State

This study investigates community perceptions of Waqf, the Islamic institution of endowment, as a tool for social development in Kano State, North West Nigeria. Waqf has historically served as a mechanism for funding education, healthcare, and infrastructure in Muslim societies, yet its modern institutional development in Nigeria remains nascent compared to other Muslim-majority countries. The study employs a descriptive survey design with questionnaires administered to 280 Muslim adults across Fagge, Nassarawa, and Tarauni local government areas of Kano. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Findings show that community awareness of Waqf as a formal institution is moderate, with many respondents confusing it with informal charitable giving (Sadaqah). A majority of respondents express willingness to contribute to a formal Waqf fund, conditional on transparent governance and clear social impact reporting. Key barriers to Waqf development include the absence of a dedicated state Waqf authority, inadequate legal frameworks, and limited public education on the concept. The study recommends the establishment of a Kano State Waqf Commission, public awareness campaigns through mosques and media, and engagement of Islamic scholars in framing Waqf as a contemporary development instrument. Keywords: Waqf, Islamic endowment, social development, Kano State, community perception.