Foundation Urges Support For Vulnerable Children, Organises Quranic Competition

The Khadija Awards Foundation has called for greater support for orphaned and vulnerable children across Nigeria, particularly those pursuing Qur’anic education.

The Founder and Chairperson of the Foundation, Khadija Fashino, made the call while speaking at the second edition of the Annual Quranic competition for Orphans in Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Abuja yesterday.

She said the initiative was created to provide inclusivity for orphaned and vulnerable children who often lack the educational opportunities others enjoy.

Fashino revealed that 10 orphanages were participating in this year’s competition,. adding that beyond the event itself, the Foundation will provide personal gifts that enhance their Qur’an study and memorisation.

“For the homes, we provide cash prizes. The first, second, and third-place homes all receive something meaningful. The highest prize today is one million naira,” she disclosed.

On eligibility, she noted that participation was open beyond Muslim-owned homes: “You do not have to be a Muslim orphanage. If it is a Christian home with Muslim children studying the Qur’an, they are eligible to come.”

Also speaking, the Chief Imam of Sunnyvale, Engineer Lukman Iwalewa, praised the impact of the Foundation efforts in raising a Qur’anic generation”.

“The fruits of that work are evident today in competitions like this, in children memorising the Qur’an across the nation, and in every verse recited publicly,” he said.

He encouraged the children to remain steadfast despite challenges. “There will be days when memorisation feels difficult, but every letter draws you closer to Allah. The angels witness your struggle. Hold on to your teachers, hold on to your Qur’an. One day, it will intercede for you.”

Co-founder Hajiya Zainab Basah said the competition was designed to give orphans a platform they are often denied.

“We are so glad to have every orphan here today to showcase their talent in Qur’anic recitation. Many are never given the opportunity to express their abilities,” she said.