In a bold step towards deepening Qur’anic education, nurturing moral excellence, and raising a generation of young Muslims firmly rooted in the teachings of Islam, ASHRAAF Islamic Foundation has announced the maiden edition of its Qur’an Competition for children aged 12 years and below.
The competition, which is open to pupils from Islamic schools, marks another milestone in the Foundation’s unwavering commitment to promoting Islamic scholarship, character development, and community service. Each participating school is expected to present three contestants in any of the designated categories: Juz of Holy Quran.
The first stage of the competition is scheduled to hold on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Peace Court Estate Central Mosque, Lokogoma, Abuja, while the Grand Finale will take place on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Mariam Babangida Development Centre (Opposite CBN Headquarters), Abuja.
With the theme, “Nurturing the Qur’an, Building a Better Ummah,” the initiative reflects the Foundation’s belief that the moral transformation of society begins with raising children who not only memorize the Qur’an but also embody its teachings in their daily lives.
Established as a faith-based humanitarian and educational organization,
ASHRAAF Islamic Foundation has consistently championed programmes that promote Islamic learning, youth empowerment, humanitarian interventions, educational development, family values, and peaceful coexistence. Over the years, the Foundation has earned recognition for organizing annual Mawlid Nabiyy celebrations, Ramadan lectures, Qur’anic enlightenment programmes, Da’wah outreach, charitable activities, educational support initiatives, and leadership development programmes that have positively impacted thousands across Nigeria.
The maiden Qur’an competition is therefore not merely a contest of memorization but a strategic investment in building future Islamic scholars, responsible leaders, and morally upright citizens who will contribute meaningfully to national development while preserving the noble values of Islam.
Speaking on the significance of the initiative, the Chairman and Founder of ASHRAAF Islamic Foundation, Imam Sharafudeen Abdulsalam Aliagan, described the competition as a fulfilment of the Foundation’s vision to raise generations whose lives are guided by the Qur’an.
According to him, “The Qur’an is the greatest gift Allah has bestowed upon humanity. Every child who commits the Qur’an to heart and lives by its teachings becomes a beacon of hope for the family, the community, and the nation.
“This competition is designed not only to celebrate excellence in Qur’anic memorization but also to inspire our children to cultivate sound character, discipline, compassion, and the fear of Allah.”
Imam Aliagan added that the Foundation remains committed to creating platforms that encourage parents, schools, and communities to invest in the spiritual and intellectual growth of children.
“Our vision has always been to build an Ummah that combines sound Islamic knowledge with responsible citizenship. Through programmes like this, we are laying the foundation for future leaders who will promote peace, justice, unity, and ethical leadership. We invite every Islamic school, every parent, and every lover of the Qur’an to partner with us in making this historic maiden edition a remarkable success.”
Also speaking, the Director of Da’wah of ASHRAAF Islamic Foundation, Ustaz Murtadhor Babamole, noted that the competition represents one of the Foundation’s strategic Da’wah initiatives aimed at reviving the culture of Qur’anic learning among children from an early age.
“Da’wah begins with knowledge, and the Qur’an remains the ultimate source of guidance for mankind. When children are encouraged to memorize, understand, and practise the Qur’an, they develop values that protect them from social vices and prepare them to become responsible ambassadors of Islam. This competition is therefore an investment in the future of our faith and our society.”
He further urged Islamic schools to embrace the opportunity by presenting their best candidates while encouraging parents to support their children’s spiritual development.
“We look forward to healthy competition, mutual learning, and the celebration of excellence in Qur’anic recitation and memorization. Beyond the prizes, every participant will leave enriched with greater confidence, stronger faith, and renewed commitment to the Book of Allah.”
The Foundation has therefore extended a warm invitation to Islamic schools, parents, religious scholars, community leaders, and members of the general public to attend both stages of the competition and encourage the young participants.
As ASHRAAF Islamic Foundation continues to expand its programmes in Islamic education, humanitarian service, and community development, the maiden Qur’an Competition is expected to become an annual flagship event dedicated to discovering, encouraging, and celebrating the next generation of custodians of the Holy Qur’an.