International Day Of Charity

International Day of Charity is an annual observance celebrated globally to raise awareness on the importance of philanthropy, solidarity, and volunteerism as vehicles for addressing social and economic challenges posed by extreme poverty and inequality. This global event aims to encourage individuals, non-governmental organizations, and other stakeholders to advocate for and participate in charitable initiatives that contribute to poverty reduction and promotion of sustainable development.

The United Nations General Assembly designated the International Day of Charity in 2012, in honor of Mother Teresa, a renowned humanist who dedicated her life to assisting the poor, sick, and vulnerable. For Nigerians, this day amplifies the principle of giving back to the community, a cultural value deeply ingrained in Nigerian society through diverse traditional practices such as umu'ada, isusu, and esusu. As a nation battling with the challenges of poverty, terrorism, and communal strife, Nigeria recognizes the significant role that charity plays in bringing relief to the needy, enhancing community development, and fostering social cohesion.

In Nigeria, the International Day of Charity is observed on September 5th, in alignment with the global calendar. During this period, individuals, communities, and organizations engage in various charity-related activities including fundraising events, donations, awareness campaigns, and acts of solidarity targeted at orphans, widows, Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), and other vulnerable members of the society. The spirit of the International Day of Charity encourages Nigerians to look out for one another and strive to collectively address the many challenges faced by the nation through acts of goodwill and altruism.