From Usman Abubakar, in Maiduguri
Borno State has emerged the overall winner in the male category of the National Qur’anic Recitation Competition, ‘Borno 2025’.
Announcing the results, the Director of the Centre for Islamic Studies at Usman Dan Fodio University, Sokoto, Professor Abubakar Yelwa, declared Musa Ahmed Musa from Borno the overall male champion while Hafsat Muhammad Sada from Kano State secured the overall title in the female category.
The week-long competition, the 40th in the series, saw 296 contestants from 30 states compete across six categories.
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, stated that the successful hosting of the 2025 Qur’anic competition signalled the return of peace to the state.
He noted that the event symbolised the people’s 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,” Governor 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,” he added.
The Governor congratulated the winners and all participants, saying, “To those who have emerged as the ultimate champions in their respective categories, I offer my most profound congratulations.
He described their success as not merely a victory in a competition, but a crowning achievement born of countless hours of discipline, commitment, and reverence for the Word of Allah.
“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,” Zulum said.
He expressed appreciation for the support of the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON; his wife, Hajiya Nana Kashim Shettima; governors and their deputies; royal fathers; Usman Dan Fodio University; and other prominent personalities.
The event was attended by Wife of the Vice President, Hajiya Nana Kashim Shettima; the Governor of Katsina State, Alhaji Dikko Umoru 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.
High point of the event was the presentation of gifts to the by wife of the Vice President, Hajiya Nana Kashim Shettima. ENDS
