08/11/2025
Niger State Concludes 40th Qur’anic Recitation Competition with Grand Ceremony in Minna
The 40th edition of the Niger State Qur’anic Recitation Competition has officially concluded with a colourful closing ceremony held at the Emir of Minna’s Palace, drawing dignitaries, scholars, and enthusiasts from across the state.
The event, which marks four decades of promoting Qur’anic education and Islamic scholarship in Niger State, was attended by representatives of the state government, traditional leaders, Islamic scholars, and other key stakeholders who gathered to celebrate the achievements of the participants and organizers.
Delivering his remarks, Alhaji Abdullahi Umar Gafakan Nupe commended the steady progress and enduring success of the Musabaqah since its inception in 1985. He lauded the Niger State Government and traditional institutions for their consistent support, urging participants to uphold sincerity and purity of purpose in their Qur’anic endeavours. “Every contestant is a winner in the sight of Allah,” he said, emphasizing the spiritual essence of the competition.
Representing the Emir of Minna, Alhaji Sulaiman Usman Zagi (Wadatan Minna), and Professor Salihu Usman, Sarkin Dawaki Borgu Mai Tuta, representing the Emir of Borgu, both encouraged Nigerlites to remain steadfast in the teachings of the Holy Qur’an. They described the scripture as a divine compass for moral conduct and societal peace, while commending the organizing committee for its dedication despite challenges.
In his welcome address, the State Coordinator, Mallam Idris Muhammad, expressed appreciation to Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago for his continued sponsorship and encouragement of Qur’anic education. He also thanked all contributors and guests for ensuring the success of the 40th edition.
Speaking on behalf of the judges, Mallam Ismail Isa Muhammad from the Emirate of Suleja highlighted significant improvements in the assessment process, noting that fairness and transparency guided every stage of the competition. He expressed confidence that Niger State’s representatives would excel at the forthcoming national Qur’anic competition scheduled to hold in Borno State.
The overall winners, Hafiz Jibrin Aliyu from Bida Emirate and Hafiza Hassana Muhammad from Suleja Emirate, expressed gratitude to Allah for their achievements. They also thanked their teachers and mentors, pledging to continue their efforts in representing Niger State with excellence at the national level.
The event featured special prayers, Qur’anic recitations, goodwill messages, and the presentation of awards to outstanding participants marking a memorable end to this year’s Musabaqah.