By Hajara Abdullahi
Musa Ahmed Musa from Borno State and Hafsat Sada from Kano State have clinched the first and second positions respectively in the National Qur’anic Recitation Competition for the male and female categories.
The results were announced in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, by the Director of the Centre for Islamic Studies, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Professor Abubakar Yelwa, on Saturday.
Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, in his remarks at the closing ceremony, said the successful hosting of the event signifies that peace has fully returned to the state.
“To host this milestone 40th edition is not just an honour for Borno State; it is a profound affirmation of our enduring commitment to peace, education, and the noble pursuit of knowledge, particularly the divine wisdom contained within the Holy Qur’an,” he said.
He noted that the state would continue to invest in education and peacebuilding.
“Borno State remains resolute in its mission to rebuild, restore peace, and prioritise education—both secular and religious. The successful hosting of this national event is a clear signal to the world: Borno is back, Borno is safe, and Borno is a centre for learning and spiritual growth,” he added.
Governor Zulum also congratulated the winners and all contestants, urging young people to remain steadfast in their quest for knowledge.
“To those who have emerged as ultimate champions in their respective categories, I offer my profound congratulations. Your success is not merely a victory in a competition; it is a crowning achievement born of countless hours of discipline, commitment, and reverence for the Word of Allah,” he said.
“And to every young man and woman who participated—who stood before the judges and recited from the Holy Book—I want you to know that you are all winners. The true spirit of this competition lies not just in the prizes won, but in the noble pursuit of knowledge and the courage to participate,” he added.
The 40th edition of the competition featured 296 contestants from 30 states across six categories.
Governor Zulum also expressed appreciation for the support of Vice President Kashim Shettima; his wife, Nana Kashim Shettima; governors and their deputies; royal fathers; Usmanu Danfodiyo University; and other prominent personalities.
The event was attended by the Wife of the Vice President, Hajiya Nana Kashim Shettima; the Governor of Katsina State, Alhaji Dikko Umaru Radda; the Deputy Governor of Sokoto State; the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi; other traditional rulers; members of the National and State Assemblies; the APC Deputy National Chairman; commissioners; Islamic scholars; and other dignitaries.
