Before his untimely death, the late Tijjani Isa Kazaure was widely regarded as a complete gentleman who was calm, reserved, and carried himself with dignity in his interactions with others.
Those who knew him can frequently recall that, even in trying circumstances, he was not the kind of person who got into needless arguments or confrontations, let alone exchanged harsh words with anyone.
His quiet strength, humility, and respectful nature earned him admiration from friends, colleagues, and members of his community.
The late Tijjani Isa Kazaure believed in maintaining harmony and treating people with courtesy, qualities that defined his character throughout his life.
Even in his absence, these virtues remain part of the legacy he left behind and the memories cherished by those of us who had the privilege of knowing him.
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I came to know him many decades ago, precisely during our post-primary school days, when we often gathered in the evenings during vacation at the Gobirawa Primary School playground.
It was in that simple setting that our acquaintance began and gradually grew into a lasting relationship.
In those days, the Gobirawa Primary School playground served as a meeting point for young people from the area who came together after school or during vacation to relax, socialize, and sometimes play games.
Known affectionately as Tijjani Dan Enugu, he was a highly regarded left-wing attacker who demonstrated exceptional prowess on the pitch while attending the Federal Government College in Enugu.
With speed, confidence, and good control of the ball, he often dazzled opposing defenders and created scoring opportunities with ease.
Watching him play in those days was always a delight, as he had a natural ability to glide past defenders and influence the game from the flank.
His talent and style of play earned him respect among his peers and admiration from those who gathered to watch the evening matches.
Even in those youthful days at the playground, it was clear that he possessed both the passion and the skill that made him stand out whenever he stepped onto the field.
Then, the late Dan Enugu stood out for his calm and respectful nature because he carried himself with quiet confidence and was never the type to engage in unnecessary quarrels or heated arguments with anyone.
Over the years, the impression he created during those early encounters remained consistent as he continued to demonstrate the same humility, discipline, and gentlemanly character that many people came to admire in him.
Those memories from the Gobirawa Primary School playground remain a significant part of how I remember him today.
His simplicity and gentle nature remained unchanged until the very end and that was exactly the impression I had when, accompanied by his family relation, Sani Muhammad Kurna, we visited him last Saturday evening at his sick bed at the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Dala, Kano.
But despite the difficult condition he was going through, he still carried himself with the same calmness and humility that had always defined his character.
Our visit was both emotional and reflective, as it brought back many memories of the past, from our youthful days at the Gobirawa Primary School playground to the many moments that showed his simplicity and kind-hearted nature.
Even on that hospital bed, one could still see the dignity and quiet strength that made him such a respected and admired person among those who knew him.
His life and character remain a lasting reminder of humility, sportsmanship, and the value of treating others with respect.
Tijjani was one of those rare friends who never hesitated or made excuses whenever I, serving as the secretary and treasurer of our old friends’ group, ‘Abokan Kurna,’ reached out for contributions toward any group project.
He was always among the first to step forward, offering his support willingly and consistently.
His generosity and readiness to assist never waned, and he took genuine pleasure in helping whenever the group needed him.
Late Tijjani’s unwavering commitment and selflessness made him a true pillar of Abokan Kurna, someone we could always count on and rely upon without hesitation.
As a management staff of the National Sports Commission, he was not in the Commission by accident as is place there was a natural reflection of who he truly was, as a passionate and devoted lover of sports.
From his younger days, his enthusiasm for sporting activities was clear to everyone around him.
Whether on the playground or in professional circles, he exhibited the same unwavering dedication, disciplined approach, and deep respect, both for the spirit of the game and the integrity of his work.
For sure sports was not just an occupation for him; they were a part of his life and identity.
It was therefore fitting that he found himself working within the sports administration system, where his love for the game and understanding of its values could be put to meaningful service.
Those who knew him could easily see that his role in the National Sports Commission aligned perfectly with his lifelong passion for sports and his desire to contribute positively to its development.
I remember that ever since he assumed office in Abuja, he had been mounting gentle pressure on me to visit him so that he could introduce me to the hierarchy of the National Sports Commission. Each time we spoke, he would remind me about it with enthusiasm.
However, I kept telling him, “I will, I will,” believing there would always be another opportunity to make the trip.
Sadly, that visit never came to pass. It is now one of those moments I look back on with deep reflection, wishing I had taken the time to honor his invitation while he was still with us.
And now that the late Dan Enugu has passed on, I doubt whether another chance or opportunity to step my foot into the office of the National Sports Commission will come again.
His invitation was sincere and heartfelt, and it reflected the kind of person he was as he was always willing to open doors for friends and associates.
Unfortunately, fate decided otherwise. Today, that unfulfilled invitation remains one of those memories that remind me of his kindness and generosity of spirit, and it is something I will always remember about him.
My prayer remains that Allah (SWT) will accept him, forgive his shortcomings, and envelop him in His mercy.
May Allah also grant his family the strength, patience, and fortitude to bear this painful loss. Ameen.
