Winners emerge in first “call to prayers” competition

Six winners have emerged in the maiden Ad-dhan (Muslim call to prayers) competition organised by the Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society (AIS) on Saturday in Abuja.

They emerged at the grand finale of the competition, which is first of its kind in Nigeria aimed at encouraging young Muslims to the proper way to adhan which is done in Arabic language.

The competition had 92 initial applicants, later recorded 60 participants in preliminary and group stages from FCT, Kaduna, Niger and Kwara states before they were trimmed to 20, ten each for senior and junior categories, for the grand finale.

The Director of AIS and Chief Imam of Al-Habibiyyah Mosque, Ustaz Adeyemi Fuad, said the competition could serve as a spring box for the development of dedicated and well-rounded Muslims for nation building.

He urged Muslim parents to encourage their children to learn the act alongside reading the Quran in order to better their positive contribution in their communities and the nation at large.

“The aim of this competition is to encourage children to learn the right words and pronunciation in the call to prayer. This is because when you are conscious of adhan you will be conscious of your duties to Allah, your duty to community and the nation, “he said.

The competition which had 10 finalists each for the junior and senior categories witnessed beautiful rendition of the adhan to the admiration of the audience.

At the end of the competition, Usman Zaharadeen emerged winner for the senior category and overall competition and was crowned the Nigerian Muazin (prayer caller) of the year.

Iliyasu Muhammad and Aliyu Abubakar came second and third respectively.

In the junior category, 18 years and below, Ahmad Usman emerged winner, while Umar Usman and Aminu Kalam came second and third respectively.

Plasma televisions sets and various cash prizes were presented to the winners.