First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has rewarded Maryam Ibrahim Dan’Azumi, winner of the women’s category at the 46th King Abdulaziz International Qur’anic Competition in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, with N20 million.
Tinubu presented the cash gift to Dan’Azumi on Tuesday in Abuja when the Quranic recitation champion visited her, accompanied by her father, Ibrahim Dan’Azumi, Gombe State Governor Inuwa Yahaya and other state government officials.
The First Lady described Dan’Azumi’s achievement as a source of pride to Nigeria and an inspiration to the girl child.
She commended her parents, teachers and mentors for supporting her education and nurturing her talent.
“Maryam’s achievement shows the value of hard work, discipline and dedication.
“I urge her to embrace mentorship as she advances in her education,” Tinubu said.
She said Dan’Azumi’s victory was not only a personal accomplishment but also a national achievement that had placed Nigeria on the global stage through her mastery of the Holy Qur’an.
Tinubu also praised Dan’Azumi’s elder sister, Hajara, who won a similar Quranic competition in Jordan in 2024.
She commended Governor Yahaya and others who contributed to the girls’ development and announced her willingness to support Dan’Azumi in pursuing a postgraduate degree.
The First Lady said education remained a priority of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, particularly efforts to promote inclusive education and provide opportunities for young Nigerians to develop their talents.
Earlier, Yahaya said Gombe State was not deficient in education, describing Dan’Azumi’s achievement as a source of pride to the state and Nigeria.
He said Dan’Azumi had progressed through local and national Quranic competitions before qualifying for the international contest in Saudi Arabia.
Responding, Dan’Azumi thanked the First Lady for the honour and support.
She said her participation in the Saudi Arabian competition had provided her with valuable global exposure.
Dan’Azumi expressed hope that her achievement would inspire other young Nigerians to work hard and strive for excellence.
She also presented her award to the First Lady and encouraged young Nigerians to develop themselves mentally and physically.
