‎The Yobe State Arabic and Islamic Education Board (AISEB) on Tuesday flagged off its Qur’anic Recitation competition at the local government level in honour of late President Muhammadu Buhari.

‎The ceremony, held in Damaturu, was dedicated to the memory of Buhari, who passed away on Sunday, July 13.

‎Dr Umar Abubakar, Executive Secretary of AISEB, said the event marked the beginning of the state’s 2025 Qur’anic recitation competition at the grassroots level.

‎He noted that the timing of the event coincided with the passing of the late President and that a special prayer was offered for the repose of his soul.

‎“We seize this opportunity to offer a special prayer, asking Allah to forgive his shortcomings and bestow mercy upon him.

‎“The entire reward of this two-week-long competition is dedicated to him in honour of his contributions to the country,” he said.

‎The event was in collaboration with Plan International, Yobe Field Office.

‎It featured the distribution of 99 hygiene kits to Almajiri pupils and the presentation of awards to 300 Islamiyya pupils who excelled in Qur’anic memorisation.

Yobe Governor Mai Mala Buni, stressed the importance of Qur’anic education in shaping the moral and intellectual foundations of society.

‎Buni, who was represented by Prof. Bello Kawuwa, the Commissioner for Higher Education said: “This initiative is part of our broader efforts to advance Qur’anic education in Yobe and Nigeria at large.

‎“Qur’anic education plays a vital role in shaping our values, guide our actions, and preserve our religious identity,” the governor stated.

‎Also speaking, Ms Halima Jibril, Project Officer at Plan International, Yobe Field Office, said the support was informed by the need to improve hygiene conditions among Almajiri children.

‎“Plan International has been working with AISEB since 2019, supporting the establishment of community schools and providing educational materials.