GOMBE State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has expressed immense pride and excitement over the outstanding international achievement of a daughter of the state, Maryam Ibrahim Dan’azumi, who emerged overall winner of the 46th King Abdulaziz International Qur’anic Competition in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
News Point Nigeria reports that Maryam, a student of Abubakar Siddiq Community Islamic School for Qur’anic Memorisation in Herwagana Quarters, Gombe, represented Nigeria at the highly prestigious competition, where she competed in the category for the memorisation of the entire Holy Qur’an, recitation, Tajweed and interpretation 60 Hizb with Tafsir.
She emerged first overall among contestants from several countries, recording an exceptional performance that brought international recognition and glory to both Gombe State and Nigeria.
The achievement is particularly significant as the competition marked the first participation of females in its 46-year history, making Maryam’s victory a landmark accomplishment.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya, in a statement celebrating the feat, congratulated Maryam, her family, teachers and the entire Muslim community in Gombe State, describing her victory as a source of immense pride for the state and Nigeria.
The Governor said Maryam’s accomplishment reflected the values of discipline and commitment to learning, noting that her success on the international stage demonstrated the quality of talent and potential among young people in Gombe State.
“I am deeply proud of our daughter’s exceptional achievement on the global stage. Maryam’s triumph exemplifies the excellence and rich educational heritage of Gombe State.
“Her victory brings pride not only to Gombe but to Nigeria as a whole.
“I am particularly confident that this feat will inspire numerous young people, especially our girls, to pursue excellence and distinguish themselves in their chosen fields.”
Governor Inuwa Yahaya also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the educational development of young people, including Qur’anic and religious studies, which he described as important in nurturing discipline, character and responsible citizenship.
He said the government would continue to identify with and celebrate individuals whose accomplishments project the positive image of Gombe State nationally and internationally.
“Our commitment to promoting the educational journey of young people, particularly in the realm of religious studies, remains unwavering. We recognise its role in moulding character and contributing to societal development.
“Gombe is known for excellence, and we shall continue to identify with those who promote the good image of Gombe to the world. Maryam is one of such people, and we are proud to celebrate her.”
The Governor noted that Maryam’s achievement was even more remarkable considering her steady progression from local to national and ultimately international recognition.
She had earlier emerged first at the Gombe Local Government Area level, first in Gombe State and first nationally before representing Nigeria at the international competition in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya said he looked forward to receiving and personally honouring Maryam upon her return to Nigeria, stressing that such recognition would encourage her to sustain her pursuit of excellence while motivating other young people to aspire to similar heights.
The Governor also called on parents, teachers, religious institutions and other stakeholders to continue nurturing young talents by providing them with the support and opportunities required to develop their abilities and contribute meaningfully to society.
He equally acknowledged the role played by Abubakar Siddiq Community Islamic School for Qur’anic Memorisation, noting that the institution had contributed significantly to the development and success of the young achiever.
Interestingly, Governor Inuwa Yahaya was himself the pioneer Chairman of the Board of the school before assuming office as Governor. He subsequently relinquished the position to Architect Yunusa Yakubu.
The Governor’s longstanding association with the institution, therefore, adds another dimension to the significance of Maryam’s historic achievement and further underscores his enduring interest in the development and education of young people in Gombe State.