Sultan of Sokoto, Gov Idris, Shehu of Borno, Emirs of Gwandu, Argungu grace flag-off of Qur’anic Recitation Competition 2024
*As Kebbi Governor expresses delight over opportunity given his state to host event after 20 years
By KEMI KASUMU and OUR REPORTER, Birnin Kebbi
The Vice Chancellor of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, Prof. Bashir Garba, representing the organizers under the Centre for Islamic Studies, described the Qur’an as a source of guidance and blessings for humanity.
The opening ceremony of Nigeria’s 39th National Qur’anic Competition 2024, hosted this year by Government of Kebbi State North West Nigeria, was held in the Birnin Kebbi, the state capital, on Friday December 20.
The all-important event, which had the Sultan of Sokoto Caliphate and President General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, CFR, mni, and Shehu of Borno, His Royal Highness Alhaji Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Elkanemi, in attendance, was declared open by Governor of Kebbi State, Dr. Nasir Idris.
Other eminent personalities who graced the event, held at the Waziri Umaru Federal Polytechnic Convocation Arena, Birnin Kebbi, included the Emir of Gwandu, Alhaji Muhammadu Iliyasu Bashar, the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Muhammadu Mera, immediate past Governor of Kebbi State and Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, another former Governor of Kebbi State, Alhaji Saidu Nasamu Dakingari, and National Organising Secretary of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Suleiman Muhammad Argungu, among other dignitaries from across Nigeria.
In his address flagging off the ceremony, Governor Idris expressed delight and gratitude for the opportunity afforded his state to host the historic event of the National Qur’anic Recitation Competition, noting that the last time Kebbi State hosted the competition was over 20 years ago.
“Today, we are making history. I am the happiest person for being found worthy to host this very important Islamic event in Birnin Kebbi.
“It is a rare privilege, and when the delegation approached me with the request to host, I had no hesitation in accepting it,” he said.
He also extended a warm welcome to participants from various states who came to take part in the competition and commended the organizers for their efforts in ensuring a well-executed event.
The Shehu of Borno, His Royal Highness Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Elkanemi, who served as the Royal Father of the Day, emphasized the significance and virtues of the Holy Qur’an.
Elkanemi, who is Deputy President General (North) NSCIA, lauded the Sultan of Sokoto for his leadership, commended the organizers for sustaining the program, and praised Governor Idris for hosting the event.
The Vice Chancellor of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, Prof. Bashir Garba, representing the organizers under the Centre for Islamic Studies, described the Qur’an as a source of guidance and blessings for humanity.
He urged participants and attendees to use the occasion as an opportunity to reconnect with the Qur’an and their Creator.
Professor Aliyu Bunza delivered a lecture on the historical background of the Qur’an, enriching the event with scholarly insights.
In his welcome address, the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Sama’ila Muhammadu Mera, who served as the Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, thanked Governor Idris for his unwavering support and financial contributions toward the event.
He also appreciated the individuals who donated prizes to ensure the competition’s success.
The annual competition is organized by the Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, through its Centre for Islamic Studies.
