It was few minutes before Magrib. Hence, I joined as we were led by Comrade Aminu Abdussalam to pray Magrib.
After the prayers, I summoned the courage to introduce myself. Courage? Hell Yes, I was nervous as it was something I am not used to. Most people who know me personally know I am an introvert, some even say go as far as saying I am a snub.
Infact when I see egoistic celebrities I pretend not knowing who they were.. e dey pain them.
Anyways...back to my story.
AKY was thrilled, as I introduced myself as and where I work.
"My name is Dr Daha Tijjani from National Open University of Nigeria" I said.
"MashaAllah...Ah, Ah, Dr, Dr., he said, shaking my hand and smiling.
Contrary to the popular believe about his character, I saw a simple and jovial man who was happy to see a fellow Kano indigene.
I've never met him, nor does he know me prior to today.
However, he gave me listening ears. From my observation, my title caught his attention.
Education is one of the pillar of the Kwankwasiyya movement. He was pleased to see yet another young PhD, he said.
It was obvious he thought I was part of the beneficiaries of the Kwankwasiyya Scholarship Programme when I mentioned to him Dr Aliyu and Ibrahim Adam were all my friends.
I told him no, but that I am a staunch Kwankwasiyya adherent.
What amazed me the most was that after the prayers Abba sat with us "commoners" in the "common waiting room" and not in the VIP lounge. That for me was humbling knowing our politicians.
Talking about humility, AKY asked for my contact and not the other way round. He asked me twice if I'd give the contact to his son, that shows he was not just "asking".. Dear Lazy Nigerian Youth(apologies Baba), see what education earned me?RESPECT.
For the first time in mylife, I Introduced MYSELF as MYSELF and earned my self respect. I didn't introduce nyseld as SON OF/GRANDSON of.. as I usually do. What am I trying to say? Build your own brand and empire, don't depend on your parent's fame. Be that person you will be proud of. Education is the key.
I wish nothing but success to AKY.
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