In a moment that has left many Nigerians inspired and proud, a 12-year-old girl, Sumayya Adam, from Billiri Local Government Area of Gombe State, has captured national attention after emerging as the female overall winner in the 2024 Gombe State Qur’anic Recitation Competition. The young prodigy, a student of Knowledge International School, showcased an extraordinary level of mastery, calmness, and confidence that earned her not just the top spot but also widespread acclaim.
The prestigious competition, which held in the ancient city of Bajoga, Funakaye LGA, drew participants from various communities across the state, each vying to display their command of Qur’anic memorisation, tajweed (pronunciation), and melodious recitation. Sumayya’s performance stood out distinctly, leaving the panel of judges visibly impressed by her precision and spiritual composure. She was rewarded with a ₦500,000 cash prize, a recognition that reinforces the value of religious knowledge and youth excellence.
Present at the award ceremony was Hon. Dr. Egla Idris, the Executive Chairperson of Billiri LGA and founder of the young girl’s school. Overflowing with joy and pride, she hailed Sumayya as a beacon of hope for her community and Nigeria at large. She commended the student’s parents, her teachers, and Islamic tutors, stressing that the achievement was the product of collective discipline, parental involvement, and an educational system that prioritises both academic and moral instruction.
“This victory didn’t happen by accident,” Dr. Idris said. “It is a result of consistent mentoring, parental cooperation, and a solid educational foundation that recognises faith and knowledge as inseparable.”
Also in attendance was Dr. Fatima Binta Bello, the Executive Chairperson of Shongom LGA, whose presence signified the importance of girl-child education and the broadening roles of women in leadership and spiritual development. Her participation lent weight to the message that investing in young girls is not merely a matter of equity but a strategy for national progress.
This event, which was more than just a contest, reminded many of the growing wave of Islamic scholarship among young Nigerians, particularly girls, who are often overlooked in discussions about intellectual and religious excellence. It also echoed a broader national call for more support towards moral and academic development among Nigerian youths, especially in underserved regions.
Sumayya Adam’s remarkable feat is not just a personal triumph but a reflection of the silent revolution happening in local education centres and communities committed to raising spiritually grounded, intellectually alert, and morally sound young citizens.
At a time when the country is in dire need of role models and uplifting stories, this young girl’s performance stands tall as a symbol of what is possible when talent meets opportunity, and when communities invest in their children’s holistic development.
