2024 Qur’anic recitation competition kicks off in Adamawa
By Hassan Umar Shallpella
The National Qur’anic Recitation Competition, has kicked off in Demsa Local Government area of Adamawa State.
The annual event, which is a brainchild of the Centre for Islamic Studies, Usman Dan Fodio University Sokoto which started in 1988 is aimed at ensuring Verses of the Holy Qur’an are recited correctly. It later metamorphosed into an annual event at the state level.
The opening ceremony of Adamawa State 2024 of the competition which is the 39th in the series tagged “Demsa 2024” with the motto “Promoting Qur’anic Values, Unity, and Youth,” was held at Massallaci na Daya Nasarawo Demsa in Demsa local government area and would round off on 30th November 2024.
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The proper competition will take place at the School of Administrative Studies, Adamawa State Polytechnic, Numan Campus under the leadership of His Majesty the Hama Batta, Homun Alhamdu Gladson Teneke.
The choice of Demsa Chiefdom to host this year’s State Qur’anic competition, according to organizers reflects the long-standing tradition of participation and resilience demonstrated by the youths of the Chiefdom who have consistently represented the state at the National level of the competition.
In his message at the opening ceremony, Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has reiterated the determination of his administration to ensure security and safety of the citizens.
Represented by the Commissioner for local government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Ibrahim Mijinyawa Yayaji, explained that development will thrive in a peaceful environment.
The Governor while expressing satisfaction with the level of arrangement for the competition and commended the Batta Traditional Council for hosting the event, stressed that the difference between humans and animals is education.
Governor Fintiri stated that Islamic religion teaches peace and such competition will enable younger ones understand the importance of being decent in the society and urged participants to adhere to the competition guidelines, stating that such events promote unity and instil a culture of seeking religious knowledge.
Declaring the competition open, Hama Batta His Royal Highness, Alhamdu Gladstone Teneke represented by District Head of Kawon Dowaya Alhaji Isah Zurah said the Chiefdom will continue to support event as a way of fostering unity, emphasized the importance of investing in younger generation.
“I’m using this opportunity to encourage us to invest in development and education of our youths, because the youths are the future leaders of our great nation, we should invest in them to have a better tomorrow,” he said.
In his speech, the chairman steering committee Alhaji Aliyu Ismaila Numan, Turakin Batta, said recitation of the Holy Qur’an serve as a divine source of guidance, wisdom and comfort.
“The Quranic recitation is a cherished tradition, deeply rooted in the spiritual lives of millions of Muslims worldwide. For believers, it is a source of divine guidance, wisdom, and solace. However, the universal principles it embodies—justice, peace, and compassion—transcend religious boundaries, reminding us of our shared humanity and the importance of coexistence and harmony,” he said.
Alhaji Aliyu, while expressing gratitude to Hama Batta, Kpagashe Diyoshifuto Tikulo Batta, for graciously hosting the competition, noted that his leadership has provided the foundation of peace and respect that has made the gathering possible.
Turakin Batta said: “To the diverse audience before me, representing various backgrounds, faiths, and cultures, I extend my sincere appreciation for your presence. Your participation today reflects the values of unity and understanding that this event seeks to promote.
“This gathering is not just a celebration of faith but a testament to the shared ideals of respect, tolerance, and mutual learning that bind us all together.
He urged people to practice patience and understanding in their daily interactions and work toward building a more united and compassionate community so that the lessons of love, peace, and mutual respect will remain with always.”
The Guest Speaker, Dr. Imam Aliyu Hong represented by Dr. Aminu Yakubu Numan spoke extensively on the divine revelation of Qur’anic and its importance to mankind.
The Chief Jduge of the Competition, Goni Umar reeled out rules governing the competition and urged participants, Coordinators and parents to adhere to the rules for a hitch-free competition.
There were goodwill messages from Alhaji Gambo Jika State Chairman, Muslim Council and the state Chairman, JIBWIS, Alhaji Sahabo Magaji, and Ustaz Ali Mamman, Special Adviser to the Governor on Islamic Affairs.
In his closing remark, Adamawa State Coordinator Qur’anic Recitation Competition, Alhaji Adamu Ahmad Umar expressed satisfaction with the level of arrangement put in place by the organizers.
Highpoint of the opening ceremony was recitation from Holy Qur’an by some of the participants.
