Abdulganiyu Azeez reports
The News Digest Press in Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto has on Thursday, 5th October announced the winners of the Abdullah Tijani Marathon Writing Contest.
The competition, sponsored by the immediate past editor-in-chief of the press board, Abdullah Tijani, was aimed at igniting the writing spirit of the members during the first semester break.
It ran from 28th August and ended on 30th September, 2023. The first category of the contest was opened to all members, with a cash prize of N10,000 plus a certificate, while the first runner-up takes N5,000 with also a certificate.
Meanwhile, to make it to the shortlist for the first category, the person must have produced at least two feature stories, three news reports and other articles before the 30th of September.
While for the second category—dedicated to the new members—, the person must have produced at least a feature, two news reports and other articles.
The winners were announced during the Digest editorial meeting held at the Student’s Union Secretariat.
Abdulrasaq Kamaldeen, a 200-level law student emerged winner of the first category with Muheeb Mashood, also a student from the same level and department becoming the first runner-up.
Meanwhile, Lamid Azeez, a 100-law student won the second category, while Akaje Maimunat, a 300-level student of English and Literary Studies became the first runner-up.
Isiaq Ibrahim and Habeeb Olokooba were among the finalists of the first category, and Mutalib Jibril, a 200-Level student of Pharmacy made it to the finalist of the second category.
In an interview with Abdulrasaq Kamaldeen, the winner of the first category said the contest has improved his writing skills.
“My experience during the contest is the improvement of my writing skills. It also sharpened my writing in an ambidextrous manner. It is a challenging competition so far, but Alhamdulillahi I emerged as the winner.”
Muheeb Mashood, the first runner-up on his own part said: “The contest was a very challenging one with hurdles on my way. But I ensured it doesn’t bring me down.”
Speaking after the announcement, the Editor-in-Chief of the pressboard, Shereefdeen Ahmad encouraged other reporters to keep their commitment intact, adding every member tried in the contest.
“Other members should also work hard because there are more opportunities ahead.”