Representatives of Borno and Kano states, Ahmed Musa and Hafsat Muhammad Sada, have emerged overall winners in the male and female categories respectively at the 40th National Qur’anic Recitation Competition.
The results were announced on Saturday in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, by the Director of the Centre for Islamic Studies, Usman Dan Fodio University, Sokoto, Professor Abubakar Yelwa.
The week-long competition featured 296 contestants drawn from 30 states of the federation, who competed across six categories.
The overall winner was reported to have walked away with five million Naira based on the pictures taken at the event.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, said the successful hosting of the 2025 edition of the competition was a strong indication of the return of peace to the state.
According to him, the event symbolised the people’s renewed commitment to peace, education and the pursuit of knowledge.
“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,” Zulum said.
“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.
The governor congratulated the winners and all participants, describing their achievements as products of discipline, dedication and reverence for the Holy Qur’an.
“To those who emerged as champions, your success is not merely a victory in a competition but a crowning achievement born of countless hours of discipline and commitment,” he said.
“And to every young man and woman who participated, you are all winners. The true spirit of this competition lies not only in the prizes won, but in the noble pursuit of knowledge and the courage to participate.”
Zulum also expressed appreciation to Vice President Kashim Shettima and his wife, Nana Kashim Shettima; state governors and their deputies; royal fathers; Usman Dan Fodio University; and other stakeholders for their support.
The event was attended by the Wife of the Vice President, Hajiya Nana Kashim Shettima; Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda; the Sokoto State Deputy Governor; 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.