Nigeria wins King Abdulaziz International Qur’anic Competition in Saudi Arabia
By KEMI KASUMU and OUR REPORTER, Gombe
Yahaya described the feat as a source of pride for Gombe and Nigeria, saying it demonstrated the value of discipline, dedication and commitment to learning.
Maryam Ibrahim Dan’azumi, a Qur’anic student from Gombe State, has emerged overall winner of the 46th King Abdulaziz International Qur’anic Competition in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
Dan’azumi, a student of Abubakar Siddiq Community Islamic School for Qur’anic Memorisation, Herwagana Quarters, Gombe, represented Nigeria at the international competition.
She competed in the category covering memorisation of the entire Holy Qur’an, recitation, Tajweed and interpretation, involving 60 Hizb with Tafsir.
According to a statement issued by Ismaila Misilli, Director-General, Press Affairs, Gombe Government House, Dan’azumi emerged first overall among contestants from several countries.
The statement said her achievement brought international recognition to both Gombe State and Nigeria.
Her victory was also described as particularly significant because the 46th edition of the competition marked the first participation of female contestants in its 46-year history.
Reacting to the achievement, Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, congratulated Dan’azumi, her family, teachers and the Muslim community in the state.
Yahaya described the feat as a source of pride for Gombe and Nigeria, saying it demonstrated the value of discipline, dedication and commitment to learning.
“I am deeply proud of our daughter’s exceptional achievement on the global stage. Maryam’s triumph exemplifies the excellence and rich educational heritage of Gombe State,” the governor said.
He added that her success would inspire young people, particularly girls, to pursue excellence in their chosen fields.
The governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the educational development of young people, including Qur’anic and religious studies.
According to him, religious education plays an important role in developing discipline, character and responsible citizenship.
Yahaya said the state government would continue to recognise and celebrate individuals whose achievements project the positive image of Gombe nationally and internationally.
He further noted that Dan’azumi’s achievement followed her progression through different stages of competition.
According to the governor, she emerged first at the Gombe Local Government Area level, first in Gombe State and first nationally before representing Nigeria at the international competition in Makkah.
Yahaya said he looked forward to receiving and personally honouring Dan’azumi upon her return to Nigeria.
He also called on parents, teachers, religious institutions and other stakeholders to continue supporting young talents and providing them with opportunities to develop their abilities.
The governor acknowledged the contribution of Abubakar Siddiq Community Islamic School for Qur’anic Memorisation to Dan’azumi’s development and success.
Yahaya was reportedly the pioneer Chairman of the school’s Board before becoming governor, after which he relinquished the position to Architect Yunusa Yakubu.
