The 2025 National Qur’an Recitation Competition has concluded in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, with Borno State emerging winner of the highest male category and Kano State clinching the top prize in the female category.
Borno’s Musa Ahmad Musa secured first place in the senior male category after scoring 98.5 percent. He will represent Nigeria at the International Qur’an Memorization Competition scheduled to hold in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, next year.
In the female category, Hafsat Muhammad Sada of Kano State topped the field with a score of 94 percent, finishing ahead of competitors from other states to claim first position.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Borno State Governor and chief host of the event, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, commended the organisers, contestants and parents for their commitment to Islamic values. He stressed that Qur’anic education remains essential in shaping the moral character of young people and guiding them throughout life.
Kwara State also recorded notable performances, finishing second in the fifth male category through Abdul-Lateef Issa, who scored 87 percent, while Muheenat Abidemi Yusuf placed fourth in the fourth female category.
The event, held at the University of Maiduguri Convocation Arena, drew dignitaries including the wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Kashim Shettima; Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal; and the Shehu of Borno, Dr. Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai. A total of 34 states and the Federal Capital Territory participated in the 10-day competition, with winners and participants receiving prizes. The next edition will be hosted by Dutse, Jigawa State, next year.
