The Khalifa of the Islamic Brotherhood of Nigeria (ISBON) and philanthropist, Alhaji Lamidi Monsur Ayoade Ejide, has distributed N20,000 each to 500 beneficiaries across Ogbomoso zone of Oyo State, amounting to a total of N10 million ahead of the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
The cash donation was carried out through the Ejide Islamic Foundation (EIF) as part of efforts to support vulnerable residents and promote religious harmony within the community.
Speaking during the distribution exercise held at the Ejide Central Mosque in the Kuye area of Ogbomoso, Alhaji Ejide said the beneficiaries were selected from the five local government areas in Ogbomoso zone, namely Ogbomoso North, Ogbomoso South, Oriire, Surulere and Ogo-Oluwa local governments.
He explained that the initiative was borne out of his decision to discontinue participation in the annual Hajj pilgrimage and instead channel the resources toward assisting the poor and less privileged within Ogbomoso and neighbouring communities.
According to him, the gesture was aimed at easing the economic hardship being experienced by residents, irrespective of religious, ethnic or social affiliations.
Alhaji Ejide noted that the foundation had sustained the tradition of supporting the needy over the years, recalling that in 2025, the foundation distributed N33,000 each to 500 beneficiaries across the same five local government areas.
Beneficiaries of the latest empowerment programme included Christians, adherents of traditional religion, Muslim faithful, market men and women, community-based organisations as well as traditional rulers in rural communities.
Some of the beneficiaries commended the philanthropist for the gesture, describing the support as timely in view of the prevailing economic situation in the country.
One of the beneficiaries, Ms. Ayobami Yinusa, praised Alhaji Ejide for extending the support beyond religious boundaries.
“I am not saying this because I am a Muslim. Alhaji Ejide also extended the gesture to Christians, traditional religion worshippers and organisations. May God continue to bless him so he can do more for the people,” she said.
Also speaking, Pa Jibril Lawal appreciated the philanthropist and prayed for good health, peace and long life for him.
“This is not the first time Alhaji Ejide is doing this. It has become his practice. Apart from these monetary donations, I know he also gives scholarships and other assistance to people.
“He has been a pillar of support for the poor and vulnerable,” Lawal said.
Other beneficiaries also offered prayers for continued growth and success of the foundation and its founder.
