A Nigerian Islamic scholar, Dr Dauda Awwal, has launched what he describes as the world’s first comprehensive Yoruba-English Qur’an translation, an initiative aimed at making the Islamic holy book more accessible to Yoruba-speaking communities around the world.

The project, called the Global English-Yoruba Qur’an 4-in-1, features the original Arabic text, full transliteration for proper pronunciation, Yoruba translation with high linguistic accuracy, 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.

“For over a century, Yoruba-speaking Muslims have lacked a complete, authentic Qur’anic reference in their language. This project will bridge that gap”, said Awwal .

Awwal also announced the launch of “My First 13 Surahs for Children”, a colourful, interactive edition designed for children aged five to ten. It includes Arabic, Yoruba, and English translations of 13 short chapters, with illustrations, worksheets, mobile app integration, and audio-visual recitations to support early Islamic education.

The scholar plans to print and freely distribute five million copies of the children’s edition across four continents: two million in Africa, and one million each in Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Digital formats will also be made available through mobile apps and e-books.

“We’re inviting global sponsors, Islamic organisations, and philanthropists to partner with us in this historic project”, Awwal stated. “This is not just a book. It is a cultural legacy and a tool for interfaith understanding”.

Awwal, who has authored over 50 Islamic publications, has received international recognition for his work . The Qur’an project was previously presented to the Nigerian High Commission in London and Nigerian communities in the UK.

Source: Punchng.com