By Abdul-Kadir Abdullah
The Edo State Government led by Governor Monday Okpebholo has reaffirmed it’s commitment to promoting moral, spiritual, and cultural development across the state.
This was the message delivered through the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq., who was the Chairman of the Occasion at the grand finale of the 2025 Edo State Qur’anic Recitation Competition (Musaabaqah) held on Sunday, October 26, at the Otaru Palace, Auchi in Edo North.
The SSG commended the organisers for their dedication to nurturing young Qur’anic scholars and promoting Islamic education in the state.
Ikhilor lauded the Otaru of Auchi, HRH Alhaji Aliru H. Momoh, Ikelebe III, for his visionary role in conceptualising and sustaining the programme over the years. He noted that the competition has become an avenue for moral reawakening, unity, and excellence among Muslim youths in Edo State.
Ikhilor said, “We appreciate the Otaru of Auchi, who was one of those that conceptualised this programme and has continued to support it through the years,”
“This administration, under the leadership of Senator Monday Okpebholo, is committed to supporting initiatives that contribute to the spiritual, moral, and physical development of Edo people, irrespective of faith, tribe, or background.”
The SSG assured that the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo would continue to encourage religious activities that promote peace, unity, and social values, emphasizing that Edo remains a state that values inclusivity and diversity.
He added, “Edo is known as the heartbeat of the nation. In education, culture, and even in matters of faith, we stand out. I urge our participants to represent the state well at the national Qur’anic competition and make us proud.”
Speaking on behalf of the royal fathers, HRH Mallam Ali D. Sulayman, the Oghieaga of Ivbie, commended the governor for his support through the SSG, describing the effort as a clear example of leadership that values faith and community.
He urged the Muslim community to continue praying for the SSG and the governor for greater strength and success in governance.
The Acting Coordinator of the Edo State Musaabaqah, Sheikh (Barr.) Hamza Usman Umar, announced that Edo State would be represented by ten participants across different categories at the forthcoming national Qur’anic competition in Maiduguri, Borno State.
He disclosed that the participants would undergo a one-month intensive training camp to prepare them for the contest, expressing optimism that Edo representatives would “come out in flying colours, Insha’Allah.”
The event, which drew scholars, traditional rulers, government officials, and Muslim faithful from across the state, also featured goodwill messages from dignitaries, including the Minister of Regional Development, Hon. (Engr.) Abubakar Momoh, who was represented; the Chairman of Edo State Muslim Pilgrim Welfare Board, Mallam Musa Muhammad Uduimoh; the Managing Director, Edo State small town and Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (STRUWASSA), Hon. Okhakumhe Murtala Muri among others.