Al-Iman School Lafia

Ustaz Rufai Ahmad Tijjani: The Principal Who Built More Than Just a School.

By Haruna Mohamed

Today, we remember and honour a man whose life was a blessing to many — a mentor, a leader, and an educator par excellence: Ustaz Rufai Ahmad Tijjani, former Principal of Al-Iman School, Lafia.

As the former Principal of Al-Iman School, Lafia, Ustaz Tijjani was known for his unwavering dedication to discipline, growth, and excellence. A strict disciplinarian, he upheld high standards within the school and extended his care to students beyond the classroom. He was committed to their moral and spiritual growth, ensuring they didn’t stray even at home.

His leadership was visionary and impactful. During his tenure, Ustaz Tijjani initiated projects that continue to speak of his deep concern for student welfare.
He led with purpose and left behind a legacy carved in concrete and character. Among his landmark contributions to Al-Iman School, Lafia were:

The construction of a well-equipped Sick Bay, ensuring students’ health was never neglected, even while they were far from home.

The establishment of purpose-built male and female hostels, introducing a structured boarding system that promoted discipline and communal living.

The creation of a Pre-JSS Class, one of his most thoughtful innovations. Recognising that many incoming students struggled with Arabic basics, Ustaz introduced this preparatory class as a bridge — not just to the curriculum, but to confidence. It was a space where learners could grow gradually, overcoming fear and gaining the foundations they needed to succeed. I’m sure Ishaq Yunus Goma will attest to this fact. For many, it became the turning point in their educational journey.

And not least, the establishment of Al-Iman’s E-Library — a groundbreaking move that brought digital access to knowledge and modern resources into the heart of the school. At a time when many institutions were lagging behind, he made sure Al-Iman students were empowered to compete in a digital age.

But his influence didn’t end with infrastructure or innovation. Ustaz Tijjani was intentional about people.
He was committed to the people who made the school what it was. He scouted for the best teachers, believing that quality education begins with quality minds. As a member of his staff, I was one of many he mentored. I recall when I was newly employed — anxious and unsure if I could meet the standard — he called me into his office and said: “Everyone you see here started like this. You’re already brilliant. All you need now is courage.” That single moment of encouragement changed everything for me.

While he was known for his strictness, those who knew him well also saw his generosity and, in rare moments, his sharp and warm humour. He believed in people — in their potential, their journey, and their growth. As a leader, he gave room to explore, to make mistakes, and to rise again. He was present not only as a principal, but as a mentor, a guide, and a father figure to both students and staff.

His legacy is not just in the structures he built or the programmes he started, but in the lives he shaped and the confidence he instilled in others. To have worked with him was a privilege. To have been mentored by him was a blessing.

May Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds, and grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus.
Ameen.

We will never forget you, Ustaz. Your light continues to shine — in the halls of Al-Iman, in the lives of your students, and in the hearts of all who had the honour of learning under your guidance.

INNA LILLAHI WA INNA ILAIHI RAJI'UN!!!

Ustadh Rufa'i - tsohon shugaban Makarantarmu Al-Iman Lafia - lokaci yayi! Ya amsa kiran MahaliccinSa. ALLAH Ya gafarta masa, Ya tabbatar da shi yayin tambaya, Yayi masa rahama.
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We are deeply saddened to announce the death of our former principal at Al-Iman School, Lafia - Ustaadh Rufa'i Ahmad Tijjani.

May ALLAH forgive his shortcomings, grant him Jannah, and reward him for his dedication to knowledge and service to the Ummah.
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إنا لله وإنا إليه راجعون!!!

بقلوبٍ مؤمنة بقضاء الله وقدره، ننعى ببالغ الحزن والأسى وفاة مديرنا مدرستنا السابق الأستاذ رفاعي أحمد.

نسأل الله تعالى أن يتغمّده بواسع رحمته، ويغفر له، ويرفع درجته في عليين، ويجعل ما قدّمه في ميزان حسناته، وأن يُلهم أهله وطلابه ومحبيه الصبر والسلوان.

اللهم لا تحرمنا أجره، ولا تفتنا بعده، واغفر لنا وله.

إنا لله وإنا إليه راجعون!!!