By Abdulrahman Abdullahi Kayode
A truth that can never be gainsaid, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki is an underpinning pillar of Islam who has habituated himself to borderless philanthropism.
Yesterday, February 11, the emirate city of Ilorin witnessed yet another Islamic banquet. The National Qur’an Memorization Competition hosted by Kwara State Government, graced by iconic Muslim leaders across the country, was not only a celebration of the future of Islam in Nigeria; it was equally a day to reward the exceptional individuals who have devoted their lives to the word of Allah –The Glorious Quran.
Thank you, Senate President, for showing us that Islamic knowledge is much valued.
Yes, the knowledge of Islam is for Allah, but I’ve severally puzzled what would become of a devoted cleric who’s abandoned to abject poverty?
I was marveled to hear the organizing committee (of the competition) Prof. Yusuf Lanre Badmus announce that Dr. Saraki donated the following prizes:
a. N1.5 million naira; free Hajj; customized digital Qur’an; and a laptop to FAUSAL MUHAMMAD AWWAL (Zamfara) and AISHA MUSA GALEE (Bauchi), the duo who emerged respective Overall Winner in male and female categories.
b. N20 million naira as additional logistics to the provision made by the Kwara State Government as the host including additional allowance for committee members, judges and officiating team.
c. N16.9 million naira to all other winners in their respective categories with all participants inclusive.
I really don’t know what else to call this if not a rare generosity and sheer contribution to the cause of Allah.
Allah says: The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills. And Allah is all-Encompassing and Knowing. (Quran 2:261)
May Allah reward you, abundantly.