First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu presented N20 million to Maryam Ibrahim Dan'Azumi in Abuja on Tuesday, September 16, in recognition of her victory in the women's category of the 46th King Abdulaziz International Qur'anic Competition held in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
Dan'Azumi attended the commendation ceremony at the seat of power alongside her father, Ibrahim Dan'Azumi, Gombe State Governor Inuwa Yahaya, and other members of the Gombe State government.
First Lady Praises Historic Victory
Tinubu described Dan'Azumi's accomplishment as a source of national pride and an inspiration to girls across the world. She praised the young woman's parents for nurturing her talent and supporting her education, according to a statement from the First Lady's office.
"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.
A Family of Champions
The First Lady also highlighted Dan'Azumi's elder sister, Hajara, who won a similar Qur'anic competition in Jordan in 2024. Tinubu described both sisters as role models for young Nigerians and extended commendation to their parents, teachers, mentors, and Governor Yahaya for their roles in the duo's development.
Tinubu added that she was willing to sponsor Dan'Azumi's postgraduate studies, reinforcing what she described as President Bola Tinubu's administration's commitment to inclusive education and creating opportunities for young Nigerians to grow their talents.
Governor Yahaya and Dan'Azumi Respond
Governor Yahaya, speaking at the event, said Gombe State was not lacking in educational excellence. He noted that Dan'Azumi had worked her way through local and national Qur'anic competitions before earning her place on the international stage in Saudi Arabia.
Responding to the honours, Dan'Azumi thanked the First Lady and said the experience of competing in Saudi Arabia gave her valuable global exposure. She expressed hope that her win would push other young Nigerians to work harder and aim higher, and she encouraged youths to develop themselves both mentally and physically.
Background: Dan'Azumi's International Triumph
Maryam Ibrahim Dan'Azumi, a teenage girl from Gombe State, won first place in two categories at the 46th King Abdulaziz International Competition for Memorising, Reciting and Interpreting the Glorious Qur'an, held in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. She took home a prize worth 300,000 Saudi Riyals, approximately ₦120 million, according to Legit.ng reports.
The ceremony in Abuja marks a significant recognition of her achievement, with the First Lady's pledge to support her postgraduate education set to further her academic journey.
