The 2026 DFA Islamic Edu-Fair, held on October 21 at JJT Park in Lagos, attracted over 2,500 participants from 94 schools across Lagos State. The event featured competitions, exhibitions, teacher development sessions, and recreational activities designed to promote Islamic education, academic excellence, talent discovery, and character development. Organised by DFA TV, the Edu-Fair brought together students, teachers, parents, and school representatives for a day of learning, healthy competition, and networking.
The event included various activities such as the Dr Muiz Banire Qur’an Competition, Spelling Bee, Arabic Pick and Speak, English Pick and Speak, Taekwondo displays, the Teachers’ Mind Hub, exhibitions, vendor activities, and the DFA Mobile Cinema. Participants expressed appreciation for the opportunity to showcase their abilities, learn new skills, and interact with others in an environment that combined educational development with Islamic values.
DFA TV CEO, Alhaji Jubril Folami, expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah and appreciated the participating schools, students, teachers, parents, facilitators, volunteers, partners, and sponsors for contributing to the event's success. He disclosed that individuals and groups in Ibadan, Abuja, and Abeokuta had expressed interest in hosting similar programmes after learning about the event and its impact.
The growing interest in the Edu-Fair reflects the need for platforms that recognise children’s talents, promote Islamic education, empower teachers, and bring communities together around positive values. Folami acknowledged the support of the event’s major sponsor, MTN, alongside other partners and supporters, noting that their contributions strengthened the delivery and visibility of the programme.
The event's competitions saw the recognition of outstanding students and schools, with winners receiving prizes in recognition of their preparation and performances. At Tanzil College emerged first in the Dr Muiz Banire Qur’an Competition, while Talim Academy took first place in the Spelling Bee. Noble Mind Schools emerged winner of the English Pick and Speak competition, and Barakatudeen emerged first in the Arabic Pick and Speak category.
Beyond the competitions, the Teachers’ Mind Hub provided a platform for educators to exchange ideas, engage experienced facilitators, and reflect on ways to improve teaching and learning. The DFA Mobile Cinema added a media and entertainment dimension to the programme, reflecting the organisers’ commitment to using media to educate, inspire, and positively engage audiences.
With calls for more editions emerging from within and outside Lagos, DFA TV said it remained committed to building on the experience and exploring opportunities to expand the initiative’s reach and impact. The organisation described the Edu-Fair as a platform where faith meets knowledge, young talents receive recognition, educators find inspiration, and students are encouraged to pursue excellence while upholding sound moral values.
Key points
- Over 2,500 participants from 94 schools attended the DFA Islamic Edu-Fair in Lagos.
- The event featured various competitions, exhibitions, and activities promoting Islamic education and academic excellence.
- DFA TV plans to expand the initiative's reach and impact across Nigeria.