Islamic scholars from Nigeria and Egypt’s Al-Azhar University came together this week in Abuja for the country’s first national Qur’anic Recitation Competition, held in honour of the late Hajiya Abibatu Mogaji, a respected figure in Nigeria’s Muslim community.
The event, hosted by Senator Basheer Lado, Special Assistant to the President on Senate Matters, brought together leading Qur’anic reciters, scholars, and judges from across Nigeria and Egypt, reflecting a shared commitment to preserving and promoting the sacred tradition of Qur’anic recitation.
“This gathering is a tribute to the life of Hajiya Abibatu Mogaji and a testament to the deep ties between Nigeria and Al-Azhar,” said Senator Lado. “We hope it inspires young people across our country to pursue Qur’anic knowledge with dedication.”
Dr Mahmoud Abdelrahman, representing Al-Azhar University, welcomed the collaboration. “We are honoured to join our Nigerian brothers and sisters in this noble effort,” he said. “It is through such exchanges that we strengthen our bonds and deepen our shared commitment to the Qur’an.”
Hajiya Abibatu Mogaji, who passed away in 2013, was a prominent businesswoman, community leader, and mother of Nigeria’s current President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Her life was widely celebrated for her contributions to commerce and social welfare, particularly among Muslim women.
Organisers say there is strong interest in making the competition an annual event, with hopes of expanding it to include participants from across West Africa in future editions.
