By Muhammad Baqeer Isa
A 12-year-old student from Gombe State, Maryam Ibrahim Dan’azumi, has emerged winner of the 46th King Abdulaziz International Qur’anic Competition in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
Maryam, a student of Abubakar Siddiq Community Islamic School for Qur’anic Memorisation in Gombe, represented Nigeria in the category for memorisation of the entire Holy Qur’an with Tajweed and interpretation, covering 60 Hizb with Tafsir.
She emerged first overall among competitors from several countries, recording what officials described as international recognition for Gombe State and Nigeria.
The competition was the 46th edition in the 40-year history of the contest. Maryam’s victory is also the first for a female in the category.
Reacting to the feat, Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, congratulated Maryam, describing her achievement as a landmark for the state, the Muslim community, and Nigeria.
“This feat brought immense pride to Gombe and Nigeria,” the governor said in a statement signed by the Director-General, Press Affairs, Ismaila Misilli.
Governor Yahaya noted that Maryam’s accomplishment reflected the value of discipline, dedication, and commitment to learning.
“I am deeply proud of our daughter’s exceptional performance on the international stage. Maryam’s triumph exemplifies the excellence we nurture in Gombe,” he said.
The governor added that Maryam’s victory would inspire other young people, especially girls, to pursue excellence in their chosen fields.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the educational development of young people, describing it as important in nurturing discipline and responsible citizenship.
According to the statement, Maryam had earlier won competitions at the Local Government Area level in Gombe, first at the state level, and then nationally before representing Nigeria in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
The governor said he looked forward to receiving and personally honouring Maryam upon her return to Nigeria, adding that such recognition would encourage her to sustain her pursuit of excellence.
He also called on parents, teachers, and institutions to continue nurturing young talents by providing them with the support and opportunities needed to develop their abilities and contribute meaningfully to society.
The Proprietor of Abubakar Siddiq Community Islamic School, where Maryam studies, also noted that the institution had contributed significantly to the young achiever’s success.