By Chigozie Chukwuleta
Enyimba Football Club is mourning the loss of former goalkeeper and Togolese international, Bassa Djeri.
According to a Press Release from the Media team, the club’s family is deeply saddened by his passing and extends its heartfelt condolences to his loved ones, the Togolese Football Federation, and the people of Togo.
The release read:
ENYIMBA FC MOURNS THE PASSING OF FORMER GOALKEEPER AND TOGOLESE INTERNATIONAL, BASSA DJERI
Enyimba Football Club is deeply heartbroken to announce the passing of our former goalkeeper and Togolese international, Bassa Sabirou Djeri, who sadly passed away at the age of 37 following a brief illness.
This devastating news has cast a profound pall of grief over the club, our fans, and the wider African football family. Bassa Djeri was more than a player—he was a symbol of dedication, resilience, and unshakable spirit both on and off the pitch.
Born on June 17, 1987, in Bassar, Togo, Djeri rose through the ranks of Togolese football with unwavering determination. He began his professional journey with Gbikinti FC, before earning his place as a stalwart between the sticks for Togo’s national team, the Éperviers. Djeri earned 15 caps for his country, showcasing remarkable composure, reliability, and an elite standard of goalkeeping that earned him the admiration of fans and peers across Africa.
His career took him to several prestigious clubs, including Cameroon’s Coton Sport and eventually Nigeria’s most successful club, Enyimba FC, where his presence was felt not only in his shot-stopping heroics but also in his humility and mentorship. At Enyimba, Djeri embodied professionalism and unity—a quiet leader in the dressing room and a fierce competitor on match days.
“We are devastated by his demise. Bassa Djeri was a gentle giant—a man of incredible integrity, discipline, and class. He will always be remembered as a valued member of the Enyimba family who served the badge with pride and honour.”
Tributes have poured in from across the continent. The Togolese Football Federation, former teammates, coaches, and clubs across Africa have all extended heartfelt condolences, remembering Djeri not just for his brilliance in goal, but for the dignity and grace with which he carried himself throughout his career.
Enyimba FC extends its deepest sympathies to the Djeri family, the people of Togo, and everyone touched by his life and legacy. His contribution to African football—marked by excellence, character, and service—will never be forgotten.
Bassa Djeri may be gone, but his legacy remains etched in our hearts and in the story of African football.
May his soul find eternal rest.
