The Yobe State Arabic and Islamic Education Board (AISEB) has dedicated its ongoing Qur’anic recitation competition to the memory of late President Muhammadu Buhari.
The competition, which kicked off on Tuesday at the local government level across the state, was launched in Damaturu in honour of Buhari’s legacy, particularly his contributions to Islamic values and education.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, AISEB officials said the gesture was a tribute to a leader who was deeply committed to religious devotion and the promotion of moral discipline.
They noted that Buhari’s life of simplicity, faith, and service to the nation remained an inspiration to young Muslims and the general public alike.
The competition will continue in phases, with winners from the local government level advancing to the state finals in the coming weeks
The ceremony, held in Damaturu, was dedicated to the memory of Buhari, who passed away on Sunday, July 13.
Dr Umar Abubakar, Executive Secretary of AISEB, said the event marked the beginning of the state’s 2025 Qur’anic recitation competition at the grassroots level.
He noted that the timing of the event coincided with the passing of the late President and that a special prayer was offered for the repose of his soul.
“We seize this opportunity to offer a special prayer, asking Allah to forgive his shortcomings and bestow mercy upon him.
“The entire reward of this two-week-long competition is dedicated to him in honour of his contributions to the country,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was incollaboration with Plan International, Yobe Field Office.
It featured the distribution of 99 hygiene kits to Almajiri pupils and the presentation of awards to 300 Islamiyya pupils who excelled in Qur’anic memorisation.
Yobe Governor Mai Mala Buni, stressed the importance of Qur’anic education in shaping the moral and intellectual foundations of society.
Buni, who was represented by Prof. Bello Kawuwa, the Commissioner for Higher Education said: “This initiative is part of our broader efforts to advance Qur’anic education in Yobe and Nigeria at large.
“Qur’anic education plays a vital role in shaping our values, guide our actions, and preserve our religious identity,” the governor stated.
Also speaking, Ms Halima Jibril, Project Officer at Plan International, Yobe Field Office, said the support was informed by the need to improve hygiene conditions among Almajiri children.
“Plan International has been working with AISEB since 2019, supporting the establishment of community schools and providing educational materials.
“This year, we decided to support hygiene by providing kits containing antiseptic soap, Vaseline, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and other essentials,” she said.
She added that poor hygiene remained a critical challenge among Almajiri children and such interventions were necessary to promote their health and well-being.
