A young reciter from Kaduna State has clinched the top prize at a prestigious national religious event held in the nation's capital. Aliyu Abdurrahman was declared the overall champion of the National Quranic Recitation Competition, which concluded on Sunday in Abuja.
Victory in Memorisation and Interpretation
The competition, which drew participants from 25 states across Nigeria, tested contestants on various aspects of Quranic knowledge. Aliyu Abdurrahman secured his victory by excelling in the demanding 60 Hizb memorisation and interpretation category. Organisers praised the exceptionally high standard of this year's event, noting that finalists displayed impressive mastery of both recitation and understanding of the holy book's meanings.
For his outstanding performance, Abdurrahman was rewarded with significant prizes during the closing ceremony. His rewards included a car and substantial cash gifts, presented before a large audience of religious scholars, traditional leaders, and dignitaries.
High-Profile Support and Generous Donations
The event garnered remarkable support from prominent political figures and public officials, highlighting its national importance. Vice President Kashim Shettima donated two cars to support the competition. In a show of significant financial backing, Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, contributed 40 million naira.
Further substantial donations came from members of the House of Representatives. Abubakar Kabir Bichi from Kano and Muktar Aliyu Betara from Borno each donated 50 million naira. Additional pledges included 10 million naira from the Chairman of the Working and Financial Committee, Ahmad Idris Wase, and a matching 10 million naira donation from the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu.
Royal Presence and Other Category Winners
The closing ceremony was graced by royal representation. The Sarkin Bwari, Alhaji Muhammad Auwal Ijakoro, crowned the overall winner while representing the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar. The Sultan's Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) is also preparing to host a major Qur'an Festival in Abuja in February 2025.
Other talented winners were recognised in their respective categories. The Secretary of the competition, Alhafiz Abdulmumin Aliyu, announced these victors, who also received cars and cash prizes. The list of other champions includes:
- Abdullahi Salisu Yahaya from Kano State
- Idris Saminu Ash’hab from Kano State
- Ibrahim Abdullahi Nur from Yobe State
- Mahmood Muhammad from Sokoto State
The competition was organised by the Islamic organisation Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS). The National Chairman of the JIBWIS Council of Ulama, Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, expressed gratitude to all individuals and institutions whose contributions ensured the event's success. Organisers stated that the high level of support will help sustain the competition and encourage even wider participation in future editions.
