By MUHAMMAD NUR TIJANI

Thirty out of 150 participants on Friday received cash prizes from N100,000 to N1 million at a Qur’an recitation competition held in Kano.

The month-long contest honoured the late Hajiya Abibatu Mogaji, mother of President Bola Tinubu, and celebrated her legacy of service and philanthropy.

It was organised by Sen. Bashir Lado, Special Adviser to the President on National Assembly Matters (Senate), as a spiritual tribute to the late matriarch.

Chairman of Kano State Council of Ulamas, Sheikh Ibrahim Khalil, chaired the event and praised its profound impact on young Qur’anic reciters across the state.

Beyond cash rewards, Sheikh Khalil revealed that houses, cars, and Hajj trips were awarded to outstanding participants in recognition of their Qur’anic knowledge.

He described the competition as both a reward and a prayer for the late Abibatu, hailing her devotion to humanity and spiritual values.

He lauded Senator Lado for choosing a religiously meaningful event over lavish celebrations as a way of honouring the deceased’s memory.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the competition began at the ward level, progressed through local councils, and concluded at the state level with 30 finalists.

Winners were selected based on merit and accuracy in Qur’an memorisation, and received cheques to ensure transparency in disbursement.

Lado warned against dealing with unauthorised bank personnel and advised winners to remain vigilant to avoid falling victim to fraud.

He said the initiative aims to empower young Qur’an memorisers financially and encourage the practical application of Islamic teachings.

He expressed hope that future competitions would inspire more youth and help steer them away from crime and anti-social behaviour. (NAN)