By Chukwuma Umeorah
Inernationally recognized Qur’an scholar, Dr. Dauda Awwal, has unveiled what he described as the first-ever Global English-Yoruba Qur’an 4-in-1 Project alongside a children’s edition titled “My First 13 Surahs for Children.”
The initiative, which he said is the first of its kind in history, combines the original Arabic text of the Qur’an, full transliteration to aid pronunciation, a Yoruba translation with high linguistic fidelity, and an English translation with commentary, hadith, biblical references, and scientific insights.
Awwal also introduced “My First 13 Surahs for Children,” a multilingual resource designed for children aged five to ten years. It contains 13 short Surahs with Arabic, English, and Yoruba translations, as well as colourful illustrations, worksheets, audio-visual recitations, and a mobile app for interactive learning.
Speaking on the project, Awwal recalled that Reverend Samuel Cole translated parts of the Qur’an into Yoruba in 1906, but his work “lacked Arabic texts, transliteration, and accurate interpretation. For over a century, Yoruba-speaking Muslims have had no authentic reference that combines all these elements in one resource. This project will not only bridge that gap but also bring the Qur’an closer to millions of Yoruba communities across the globe.”
Dr. Awwal, a graduate of Muhammad Ibn Saud University in Riyadh, has authored more than 50 books, with his works having received international recognition, including acknowledgment from the late Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom. The project has also been formally presented to the Nigeria High Commission in London and Nigerian communities in the UK.
He said the initiative aims to print and distribute five million free copies of My First 13 Surahs worldwide, with one million copies each for Europe, America and Asia, and two million copies for Africa. “The initiative will also include digital distribution through mobile apps and interactive e-books, making Qur’anic education accessible to children and families worldwide,” Awwal added.
Calling for global support, Awwal said: “It is a cultural legacy, a tool for interfaith understanding, and a bridge for future generations. We are inviting global leaders, including His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, to help us make this vision a reality.”
