The Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, CFR, mni, has described the victory of Maryam Ibrahim Dan’azumi at the 46th King Abdulaziz International Qur’anic Competition as a moment of great pride for Nigeria and the entire Muslim world.

In a statement issued Friday, August 21, 2026, and signed by Prince Bashir Adefaka on behalf of the Sultan’s Media Team, the President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs said Dan’azumi’s triumph puts Nigeria on the global map.

Maryam, a student of Abubakar Siddiq Community Islamic School, Herwagana Quarters, Gombe, represented Nigeria in the category for full Qur’an memorisation with Tafsir, Tajweed and interpretation covering 60 Hizb.

The Sultan noted that this year’s edition was historic as it was the first time female contestants were admitted in the 46-year history of the competition. He expressed joy that a Nigerian girl emerged overall winner.

His Eminence linked Maryam’s feat to the 2025 global win by Nafisa Aminu of NTIC Yobe, who was named best in English at the TeenEagle Global Finals in London. He said both victories prove what Nigerian girls can achieve with the right support.

The Sultan praised Dan’azumi’s parents, teachers, school and the Gombe State Government, and urged Nigerian youths to emulate her dedication.

He prayed that Allah increases her in knowledge and makes her a role model for others.