Nigerian Muslims Shine in Saudi Arabia
By Sadiq Abdulfatah
Two young Nigerians, Miss Maryam and Mr. Muhammad, have emerged among the 50 winners of the 46th King Abdulaziz International Qur’an Competition in Saudi Arabia.
The achievement came as 334 contestants from 133 countries took part in the competition, which brought together some of the best Qur’an memorizers and reciters from around the world.
In a statement signed by Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), its Chairman/CEO, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, congratulated Maryam and Muhammad on their achievement, describing it as a proud moment for Nigeria and a reminder of the talent and potential of Nigerian youths.
Dabiri-Erewa said their achievement was more than just winning a competition, adding that they had represented Nigeria well and helped to show a positive image of the country on an important international platform.
She said their success would also encourage other young Nigerians by showing what can be achieved when talent is supported by hard work, opportunity and determination.
The NiDCOM boss also praised the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for its continued support for Qur’an memorisation, recitation and study through the King Abdulaziz International Qur’an Competition.
For more than four decades, the competition has provided young Muslims from different countries with an opportunity to show their dedication to and knowledge of the Holy Qur’an.
The 46th edition also recorded more than SAR10.26 million, about ₦4.1 billion, in prize money for successful contestants.
With 334 contestants from 133 countries taking part, the emergence of Maryam and Muhammad among the 50 winners is a source of pride for Nigeria and reflects the hard work, discipline and commitment they have put into their Qur’anic studies.
NiDCOM celebrated Maryam and Muhammad and wished them continued success as they continue their Qur’anic journey and make Nigeria proud.
“Congratulations, Maryam and Muhammad. Nigeria is proud of you,” Dabiri-Erewa said
Maryam Ibrahim Dan’Azumi is from Gombe State, Nigeria, and was a student of Abubakar Siddiq Islamiyya School, Gombe.
Her achievement in Saudi Arabia also continues a strong Qur’anic record in her family. In 2023, her elder sister, Hajara Ibrahim Dan’Azumi, represented Nigeria at an international women’s Qur’an competition in Jordan, which attracted participants from almost 40 countries, and emerged first.
Hajara received ₦5 million in cash, a scholarship, ₦5 million for her school and a Hajj seat from the National Hajj Commission as part of the rewards for her achievement.
Three years later, Maryam followed in her sister’s footsteps by winning the women’s Tafsir category at the 46th International Qur’an Competition in Saudi Arabia.
She received SAR300,000, approximately ₦120 million, as her prize.
Beyond their Qur’anic achievements, the two sisters have also pursued their academic education. Hajara studied Botany and has completed her university education, while Maryam is currently in her final year studying Education Physics.
The achievements of the two sisters highlight their commitment to both Qur’anic studies and formal education.
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