Emir commends scholar for translating Holy Quran into Yoruba, English

The Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, has commended an Ilorin-born Islamic scholar and media practitioner, Dr Daud Awwal, for translating the Holy Quran into Yoruba and English.

A statement issued on Monday in Ilorin by the Emir’s spokesman, Dr Abdulazeez Arowona, said that the commendation was made when the Islamic scholar paid a courtesy visit to the palace to present copies of the translated Quran to the traditional ruler.

The project comprises a complete translation of the Holy Quran from Arabic into Yoruba and English, as well as a transliteration version designed to assist non-Arabic speakers in reciting the Quran with correct pronunciation.

Speaking during the visit, Sulu-Gambari described Awwal as a worthy ambassador of the Ilorin Emirate and a distinguished member of the Nigerian diaspora in the United Kingdom.

He praised the scholar’s consistency in promoting Islamic scholarship, moral values and religious education despite his engagements abroad.

“This is a landmark achievement that will go a long way in preserving the Islamic scholarly heritage of the Ilorin Emirate and making the divine message of the Holy Quran accessible to a wider audience, particularly those who are more proficient in Yoruba and English,” the Emir said.

He added that the translation and transliteration project aligned with the Emirate’s long-standing tradition of scholarship, tolerance and pursuit of knowledge.

According to him, such intellectual efforts are vital to combating ignorance, strengthening faith and ensuring that younger generations remain connected to their religious and cultural heritage.

The Emir, who is also the Chairman of the Kwara Traditional Rulers Council, prayed for Allah’s continued blessings, wisdom and strength for Awwal in his service to Islam and humanity.

He also urged other sons and daughters of the Ilorin Emirate, both at home and in the diaspora, to emulate Awwal’s commitment to community development and the promotion of Islamic values.

In his remarks, Awwal expressed appreciation to the Emir for his fatherly support and encouragement to scholars.

He said that the project was conceived to bridge language barriers and enable Yoruba and English-speaking Muslims to better understand, recite and reflect on the teachings of the Holy Quran.

According to him, the transliteration version is specifically intended to assist those who cannot read Arabic script but desire to recite the Quran with proper pronunciation.

Awwal disclosed that the project took 22 years to complete.

He added that proceeds from the translated editions and their distribution would be dedicated to Islamic education, Da’wah activities and the support of Qur’anic schools.

He further said that two million copies would be distributed across Africa, while one million copies each would be distributed in Europe, Asia and the United States.

Copies of the translated Holy Quran were formally presented to the Emir during the visit.