A daughter of Gombe State, Maryam Ibrahim Dan’azumi, has won the 46th King Abdulaziz International Qur’anic Competition held in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Maryam, a student of Abubakar Siddiq Community Islamic School for Qur’anic Memorisation in Herwagana Quarters, Gombe, represented Nigeria at the prestigious competition in Makkah. She competed in the category involving memorisation of the entire Holy Qur’an, recitation, Tajweed and interpretation, covering 60 Hizb with Tafsir.
She emerged overall winner ahead of contestants from several countries, earning international recognition for both Gombe State and Nigeria.
Her victory was particularly notable because the 46th edition marked the first time females participated in the competition since its establishment 46 years ago, making her achievement a historic milestone.
Reacting to the feat, Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, congratulated Maryam, her family, teachers and the Muslim community in the state, describing her success as a source of immense pride for Gombe and Nigeria.
This was disclosed in a press statement signed by the Director-General, Press Affairs, Gombe Government House, Ismaila Misilli, and obtained by our correspondent.
The governor said Maryam’s achievement demonstrated the importance of discipline, dedication and commitment to learning, while also showcasing the talent and potential of young people in Gombe on the international stage.
“I am deeply proud of our daughter’s exceptional achievement on the global stage. Maryam’s triumph exemplifies the excellence and rich educational heritage of Gombe State.
“Her victory brings pride not only to Gombe but to Nigeria as a whole.
“I am particularly confident that this feat will inspire numerous young people, especially our girls, to pursue excellence and distinguish themselves in their chosen fields.”
Yahaya also reiterated his administration’s commitment to advancing the educational development of young people, including Qur’anic and religious studies, which he said play an important role in building discipline, character and responsible citizenship.
He added that his administration would continue to recognise and celebrate individuals whose achievements project a positive image of Gombe State both nationally and internationally.
“Our commitment to promoting the educational journey of young people, particularly in the realm of religious studies, remains unwavering. We recognise its role in moulding character and contributing to societal development.
“Gombe is known for excellence, and we shall continue to identify with those who promote the good image of Gombe to the world. Maryam is one of such people, and we are proud to celebrate her.”
The governor further noted that Maryam’s accomplishment was especially remarkable given her progression from the local level through the state and national stages before achieving international recognition.
According to him, Maryam had earlier emerged first at the Gombe Local Government Area level, followed by first place in Gombe State and at the national level, before representing Nigeria at the international competition in Makkah.
Yahaya said he looked forward to welcoming and personally honouring Maryam upon her return to Nigeria, noting that such recognition would encourage her to maintain her pursuit of excellence while inspiring other young people to aim for similar achievements.
He also urged parents, teachers, religious institutions and other stakeholders to support young talents by creating opportunities for them to develop their abilities and make meaningful contributions to society.
The governor acknowledged the contribution of Abubakar Siddiq Community Islamic School for Qur’anic Memorisation to Maryam’s development and success.
Interestingly, Yahaya served as the pioneer Chairman of the school’s Board before becoming Governor of Gombe State. He later relinquished the position to Architect Yunusa Yakubu.
