Senator Sharafadeen Alli (APC-Oyo South) took centre stage at the recently concluded annual Ileya Quranic competition organised by the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS) as his generous sponsorship elevated the event’s success.
This is contained in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Akeem Abas and made available to newsmen on Sunday in Ibadan.
The competition saw participants demonstrating exceptional proficiency in memorisation and recitation skills, reflecting their commitment to Quranic studies.
Abdul-Salam Onipede and Muktar Adisa emerged as first-place winners in the Senior (Jizu Tabaraka) and Junior (Jizu Ammon) categories respectively, receiving accolades and prizes for their outstanding performances.
Senator Alli emphasised the significance of such events in nurturing religious knowledge and moral values among the youth, strengthening the cultural fabric of the community.
“In a world where moral values are increasingly challenged, the teachings of the Quran provide a timeless guide for ethical living and community service,” he remarked.
Alli, who was represented by Dr Gafar Salaudeen, said that supporting such competitions aligned with his broader goal of promoting education and cultural heritage in Oyo State.
He congratulated the winners and other participants, encouraging them to continue their Quranic studies.
“These prizes are not just a reward for your excellence but an investment in your future.
“May you use this support to continue your education and become exemplary members of our society,” he said.
The lawmaker reaffirmed his commitment to supporting educational initiatives and religious programs in Oyo State.
“I believe that by investing in the education of our youth, we are securing a brighter future for our community.
“I am proud to support the BCOS Quranic Competition and look forward to seeing these young scholars grow and contribute positively to society,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, the BCOS expressed gratitude to Senator Alli for his unwavering support, recognising his role in the event’s success and positive impact it had on the community’s intellectual and spiritual growth.
The Annual BCOS Quranic Competition, aims to promote Islamic education and foster spirit of healthy competition among young learners.
This year’s event, with Senator Alli’s sponsorship, was particularly notable for its increased participation and heightened enthusiasm among the students and their families.
In the senior category, Onipede emerged as the first-place winner receiving a prize of N100,000, while Abdul-Wakeel Khalid Ajao (2nd) and Abdul-Manan Abidemi (3rd) went home with N65,000 and N35,000 respectively.
In the Junior category, Adisa clinched the first position with an award of N70,000 while Abdul-Lateef Ali (2nd) and Ahmad Omotosho got N50,000 and N30,000 respectively.