By By Elizabeth Ugbo
First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has given N20 million to Maryam Ibrahim Dan’Azumi, a Gombe State Qur’anic scholar who won the King Abdulaziz International Qur’anic Competition in Saudi Arabia. Tinubu presented the money on Tuesday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja after Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya led a delegation to meet her. The support aims to assist Maryam’s education and recognise her achievement in Qur’anic scholarship.
Tinubu Celebrates Maryam’s Achievement
The First Lady described Maryam’s achievement as a source of pride for Nigerian women and the girl-child.
According to a statement by Ismaila Uba Misilli, Director-General of Press Affairs at the Gombe Government House, Tinubu praised Maryam’s accomplishment.
“Maryam has brought joy to us. You have made us proud by conquering the world, especially in this area of faith and divine knowledge,” the First Lady said.
Meanwhile, Governor Yahaya expressed appreciation to Tinubu for the support.
He said he valued the First Lady’s warm reception and N20 million contribution towards Maryam’s education.
Maryam Wins International Qur’anic Competition
Maryam is a student of Abubakar Siddiq Community School for Qur’anic Memorisation in Gombe.
She emerged as the overall winner of the second category at the 46th King Abdulaziz International Qur’an Recitation Competition.
The competition took place in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
Maryam competed in a category covering memorisation of the entire Holy Qur’an.
The category also tested recitation, Tajweed and interpretation.
She scored 97.70 marks to secure the overall victory.
Her victory marked a major milestone for the long-running international competition.
It was also the first edition to admit female contestants.
Maryam Previously Won National Qur’anic Competition
Maryam had earlier demonstrated her Qur’anic expertise at the national level.
She won the female category at the 40th National Qur’anic Recitation Competition in Maiduguri, Borno State.
Her latest international victory has further raised her profile in Qur’anic scholarship.
The Saudi competition reportedly awarded her N120 million for the achievement.
Qur’anic Excellence Runs in Maryam’s Family
Maryam’s success also continues a strong family tradition in Qur’anic scholarship.
Her elder sister, Hajara Ibrahim Dan-Azumi, previously won an international Qur’anic competition.
Hajara emerged winner of the 18th Hashemite Jordan International Qur’anic Competition for Females in Jordan in 2024.
The family’s achievements have therefore attracted recognition from Gombe State and beyond.
Governor Yahaya Presents Maryam to First Lady
Governor Yahaya led Maryam’s delegation to the Presidential Villa.
Maryam’s parents, teachers and other members of the Gombe delegation also attended the visit.
The governor said Maryam’s accomplishment had brought pride to both Gombe State and Nigeria.
The recognition also highlights the achievements of Nigerian girls in international academic and religious competitions.
