A 23-year-old female scholar, Akinola Aishah, has emerged as the overall best graduate of Darul Kitab Was-Sunnah, an Islamic and Arabic institution in Ilorin, Kwara State.

Aishah’s achievement is historic, being the first female student in the 34-year history of the institution to attain the overall best feat.

The final examination results, released on Wednesday, placed the Ilorin indigene ahead of other students.

Her success, however, attracted commendation from the Chief Imam of the National Mosque, Abuja, Dr. Abdulkadir Jumuah Solagberu, who is also the school’s proprietor.

Solagberu, the first Malami Ubandoma of Ilorin Emirate, expressed delight over Aishah’s performance, describing the feat as a significant milestone for the institution and its students.

Born and raised inIdi Ape area of Ilorin, Aishah was said to have developed early interest in Arabic and Islamic education before joining the Darul Kitab Was-Sunnah.

“During her studies, she distinguished herself through dedication, discipline and commitment to academic excellence, qualities that ultimately earned her the top graduating position.

“Her emergence also highlights the growing participation of young women in Arabic and Islamic scholarship, particularly in a field traditionally associated with male scholars.

“The achievement is expected to encourage more girls and young women to pursue Islamic and Arabic education and strive for excellence,” Solagberu said.

He was sure that Aishah’s success adds a new chapter to the institution’s history, while also underscoring its role in producing young scholars grounded in knowledge, discipline and intellectual development.

He said: “her feat has equally brought pride to her family, teachers and the wider Ilorin community, known for its long-standing tradition of Islamic scholarship.

“As she moves beyond the institution, Aishah’s achievement is expected to remain an inspiration to students seeking to pursue Arabic and Islamic scholarship and attain the highest levels of academic excellence,” he said.