- From Muhammad Gazali Garba
The Sokoto State Government has donated 259 motorcycles to the 259 students who successfully memorised the entire Holy Qur’an at Madarasatul Tahfeez Wal Dirasatul Qur’aniyyah, Hubbaren Shehu, Sokoto .
The announcement was made by the Sokoto State Governor, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu, while delivering his address at the school’s second graduation ceremony held at the Giginya Memorial Stadium, Sokoto.
Governor Aliyu said the gesture was aimed at supporting the graduates to become self-reliant and to ease their mobility as they continue to propagate the teachings of the Holy Qur’an across communities.
He described the memorisation of the Qur’an as a rare and commendable achievement, noting that the beneficiaries had distinguished themselves through dedication, discipline, and perseverance.
He further announced that each of the 53 teachers of the institution would receive ₦500,000 in recognition of their invaluable role in grooming the students and disclosed a donation of ₦10 million to the school to support its upkeep and continuous development.
In addition, he directed the immediate inclusion of the 53 teachers on the state government payroll effective from April this year, stating that each teacher would be placed on the appropriate salary scale according to their grade level.
He described the move as part of efforts to improve teachers’ welfare and ensure sustained quality education in the institution.
The Governor commended Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko for establishing the school and providing its permanent site, describing the initiative as visionary and impactful.
He also appealed to wealthy individuals and philanthropists in the state to emulate the Senator’s efforts by complementing the initiatives of the state government in advancing Qur’anic and general education.
He reiterated that investment in both Islamic and Western education remains a priority of his administration, urging the graduates to uphold the teachings of the Qur’an and serve as good ambassadors of Islam wherever they find themselves.
Speaking during the ceremony, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, the founder of the school, expressed delight at the achievements of the 259 graduates. He recounted that the institution started as a modest school with a small number of students and a single teacher, and has now grown into a centre of excellence for Qur’anic education.
Senator Wamakko further announced a total donation of ₦168 million for the school from associates, friends, and well-wishers, including the guest of honour, Senator Abdulaziz Yari Abubakar who donated ₦30 million.
He said the donations would be used to enhance infrastructure, expand learning facilities, and support both students and teachers, ensuring the school continues to thrive.
The school proprietor, Mal Bello Na Malam Boyi, expressed gratitude to the state government and Senator Wamakko for their unwavering support to the institution.
He recalled that the school started with just 10 students and one teacher at a temporary site at the residence of Malam Aliyu Gidan Kanawa before moving to its permanent site at Hubbaren Shehu, acquired and constructed by Senator Wamakko in 2010.
Mal Bello also highlighted the ongoing expansion project, noting that neighbouring houses were recently acquired to increase the school’s capacity and that construction has begun in 2025 to meet the growing demand for Qur’anic education.
He described the graduation of 259 memorizers as a historic milestone and a source of inspiration for both students and the wider community.
In his remarks, the State Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Prof. Jabir Sani Maihulla, commended the graduates for their dedication to memorising the Holy Qur’an, describing it as a remarkable achievement that reflects discipline, patience, and strong moral character.
He praised the state government for its unwavering support to Qur’anic education and urged parents, guardians, and community leaders to continue promoting both Islamic and Western education.
Prof. Maihulla noted that such initiatives strengthen the moral fabric of society and contribute to producing responsible and enlightened citizens.
Representing the Sultan of Sokoto, the Waziri, Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu, conveyed the Sultan’s goodwill and blessings to the graduating students and their families. He urged the memorizers to uphold the teachings of the Holy Qur’an in their daily lives and to serve as ambassadors of peace, unity, and moral uprightness in society.
He also commended the state government, the school management, and Senator Wamakko for their commitment to the promotion of Qur’anic education, noting that the preservation and propagation of the Qur’an remain noble and highly rewarding endeavours.
