ASHRAAF Qur’an Competition Heads for September Finale After First Stage
Foundation’s maiden contest for children aged 12 and below advances to grand finale in Abuja after first-stage screening
By Abdullahi Yusuf
The maiden Qur’an Competition organised by the ASHRAAF Islamic Foundation has moved into its next phase following the completion of its first stage, with the grand finale scheduled for September 19 in Abuja.
The competition, designed for children aged 12 and below, was introduced to encourage Qur’anic memorisation and nurture a generation of young Muslims whose knowledge is reflected in their character and conduct.
The first stage was held on July 21 at the Peace Court Estate Central Mosque in Lokogoma, Abuja, with pupils from Islamic schools participating in designated Qur’anic categories.
Under the theme, “Nurturing the Qur’an, Building a Better Ummah,” the competition places emphasis not only on memorisation but also on the values that the Qur’an seeks to cultivate, including discipline, compassion and consciousness of Allah.
Founder and Chairman of the foundation, Imam Sharafudeen Abdulsalam Aliagan, said the initiative was conceived to connect Qur’anic learning with character development among children.
He said the objective was to encourage young participants to see the Qur’an not simply as a text to be memorised, but as a guide whose teachings should shape their behaviour and relationship with others.
The foundation’s Director of Da’wah, Ustaz Murtadhor Babamole, said the competition was intended to strengthen Qur’anic learning and encourage children to develop a lasting relationship with the scripture.
He described the initiative as part of efforts to revive interest in Qur’anic education and raise young people capable of representing Islamic values responsibly in their communities.
Following the first stage, the competition is now expected to culminate in the grand finale on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at the Mariam Babangida Development Centre, opposite the Central Bank of Nigeria headquarters in Abuja. The event is scheduled to begin at 10am.
The September finale will bring the competition to its concluding stage, as participating children compete for recognition after the earlier rounds of Qur’anic assessment.
Beyond the competitive element, the organisers say the broader purpose is to make Qur’anic learning engaging for children while reinforcing the link between religious knowledge, personal discipline and good character.
The ASHRAAF Islamic Foundation is involved in Islamic education, Da’wah, humanitarian activities and community development, with programmes including lectures, seminars and other educational initiatives.
The foundation has positioned the Qur’an competition as part of its wider effort to encourage spiritual development and strengthen Islamic learning among younger generations.
With the first stage completed, attention now shifts to the September finale, where the foundation hopes to celebrate the children who have demonstrated commitment to Qur’anic learning and encourage them to continue their engagement with the scripture beyond the competition.
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