Abstract: Despite its abundant human and natural resources, Nigeria continues to face persistent poverty, unemployment, inequality, and various forms of violent conflict. This paper examines the relationship between poverty and violence in Nigeria from the perspective of Islamic economics and social finance. It argues that economic deprivation, social exclusion, corruption, and weak welfare institutions create conditions that increase vulnerability to insecurity, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and communal conflict. Using a qualitative and analytical approach, the study explores the role of Zakāh, Waqf, Ṣadaqah, Qarḍ Ḥasan, and Islamic microfinance in addressing poverty and promoting social stability. Drawing on the Qur'an, Sunnah, classical juristic writings, and contemporary scholarship, the paper demonstrates that Islamic social finance provides an ethical framework for wealth redistribution, financial inclusion, and community empowerment. The study concludes that strengthening Islamic social finance institutions through effective governance, transparency, and strategic collaboration can contribute significantly to sustainable development, peacebuilding, and national stability in Nigeria.
Keywords: Poverty, Violence, Nigeria, Islamic Social Finance, Sustainable Development, Social Stability
DOI: 10.36349/atij.2026.v02i01.001
author/Dr. Warshu Tijjani Rabiu
journal/Al-Takamul IJ 2(1) | July 2026 |
