By Abdulwahab Muhammad, SSA Communication
Toro Local Government Area has welcomed 240 male and female contestants for the 41st Bauchi State Qur’anic Recitation Competition, as young reciters showcase their knowledge and compete for a place among the state’s representatives at the national contest.
The contestants are taking part in six categories: 2, 10, 30 and 60 Hizb, Tafsir and Qira’at. The competition promotes Qur’anic learning and provides a platform for young people to develop their recitation and Islamic scholarship.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the State Chairman of the Bauchi State Qur’anic Recitation Competition Committee, Imam Hassan Usman Zango, urged parents, community leaders and traditional institutions to strengthen their support for Qur’anic education.
He described Islamic knowledge as essential to moral upbringing and societal development, saying that investing in children’s religious education helps build a disciplined and enlightened generation.
Imam Zango said Bauchi State had represented Nigeria in Qur’anic competitions in Saudi Arabia and Algeria on two consecutive occasions. He expressed confidence that the state’s contestants could perform strongly at the forthcoming national competition in Dutse, Jigawa State.
He charged the judges to assess contestants fairly, transparently and on merit. He also said prizes would be awarded to outstanding contestants, with consolation awards for other participants.
The Commissioner for Religious Affairs and Societal Reorientation, Engr. Muhammad Binni Abubakar, described the competition as a way to promote Qur’anic literacy and encourage young Muslims to apply the teachings of the Qur’an in their daily lives.
He urged the contestants to take part with sincerity, discipline and dedication.
Declaring the competition open, Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed reaffirmed Bauchi State’s reputation for Qur’anic recitation and Islamic scholarship. Represented by the Chief of Staff, Government House, Alhaji Hashimu Kumbala, the Governor commended Islamiyya teachers and other stakeholders for supporting Qur’anic education across the state.
He urged the committee to intensify preparations and provide mentorship for the state’s representatives ahead of the national competition in Dutse.
The Governor reminded contestants that the purpose of recitation extends beyond prizes and recognition, encouraging them to seek Allah’s pleasure through recitation, understanding and practical application of the Qur’an.
The competition brings together government, religious institutions, traditional authorities, parents and scholars in support of Qur’anic education and the development of young talent.
