The scholar plans to distribute five million free copies worldwide and called for support from global sponsors and Islamic organisations.
A Nigerian Islamic scholar, Dr Dauda Awwal, has unveiled what he described as the world’s first comprehensive Yoruba-English Qur’an translation, aimed at making Islam’s holy book more accessible to Yoruba-speaking Muslims globally.
In a Thursday statement to The PUNCH, Awwal announced the Global English-Yoruba Qur’an 4-in-1, which combines the original Arabic text, full transliteration, Yoruba translation with linguistic precision, and English translation enriched with commentary, Hadith references, biblical comparisons, and scientific insights.
“This is the first time in history that all these elements are coming together in a single Qur’an,” Awwal said. “For over a century, Yoruba-speaking Muslims have lacked a complete, authentic Qur’anic reference in their language.”
Alongside the translation, Awwal launched My First 13 Surahs for Children, an interactive edition for ages five to ten, featuring colourful illustrations, worksheets, app integration, and audio recitations.
The scholar plans to distribute five million free copies worldwide and called for support from global sponsors and Islamic organisations.
“This is not just a book. It is a cultural legacy and a tool for interfaith understanding,” Awwal stated.
Awwal, who has authored over 50 Islamic works, previously presented the project in the UK and received international commendations.
—
**Suggested Extracts:**
* “This is the first time in history that all these elements are coming together in a single Qur’an.”
* “This is not just a book. It is a cultural legacy and a tool for interfaith understanding.”
* “For over a century, Yoruba-speaking Muslims have lacked a complete, authentic Qur’anic reference in their language.”