Fortifying Cash Waqf for SDG 2 attainment: Inquiry into Philanthropic Intention of the Nigerian Muslim Community

Abstract

This study explores the potential of cash waqf (charitable endowments) in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger) in Nigeria through digitalization. By surveying and interviewing Nigerian Muslims, we investigate the philanthropic intentions and preferences of the community towards cash waqf, and assess the willingness to adopt digital platforms for waqf management and distribution. A questionnaire structured to nine sections comprising ‘demographics profile’, ‘performance expectancy’, ‘effort expectancy’, ‘social influence’, ‘perceived iḥsān’, ‘trust’, ‘behavioral intention’, and ‘use behavior’ related to digital waqf usage.  In this quantitative research, data was collected through questionnaires that shows Expectancy PE, EE, SI and PI have positive and significant effect on BI since the p-value are below 0.5 for HO1, HO2, HO3 and HO4. This provides the basis for rejecting the hypothesized relationships. In addition, FC, TR and BI have positive and significant effect on UB. In summary, BI is having positive and significant mediation effect between PE, EE, SI and PI on BI, while FC and TR have direct positive and significant effect on UB, hence signifying the basis for rejecting all the null hypothesis of the study. The coefficient of determination or assessment of R-square level was assessed in order to evaluate the amount of variance explained by the exogenous variables on the endogenous variable Our findings suggest a strong desire to utilize cash waqf for sustainable development, particularly in addressing food security and poverty. We propose a digital framework for cash waqf management, harnessing fintech and blockchain technology to enhance transparency, efficiency, and impact. This research aims to contribute to the development of innovative, community-driven solutions for achieving SDG 2 in Nigeria, and shed light on the role of faith-based initiatives in promoting sustainable.