E-WAQF IMPLEMENTATION: A PARADIGM SHIFT IN NIGERIA WAQF SYSTEM

Abstract

The paradigm of the Waqf system has shifted from movable and immovable properties such as land Waqf, cash Waqf and others but also to the employment of electronic or e-Waqf system. Thus, the objectives of the current study are to focus on three major research questions which are: exploring the usability of the e-Waqf system in the Nigerian context; determining the challenges of e-Waqf system implementation and recommending prospects of e-Waqf implementation for better waqf governance. The study employs a qualitative approach using semi-structured interview questions to gather the information from (6) informants of e-banking expertise and (3) Waqf managers or “Mutawalli†in Nigeria. Qualitative research methods are most appropriate in situations in which little is known about a phenomenon or when attempts are being made to generate new theories. The findings of the current study indicate that online Waqf has been established as a viable solution to improve wealth redistribution amongst Muslims in Kuwait and Malaysia. In this study, online Waqf is generally referred to as Muslims’ donation in the form of cash that is performed via electronic means (e.g. Internet banking facilities). If it is offered through internet banking facilities, online Waqf is therefore viewed as one of the services that are necessary to be provided by Islamic banks.