A profound sense of sorrow has enveloped Kano State following a horrific road accident that claimed the lives of 22 athletes and officials. The tragic incident occurred on Saturday, May 31, 2025, as they were returning from the National Sports Festival (NSF) held in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

In response to this devastating loss, the Kano State Government has announced a donation of N1 million to each bereaved family, along with food items and other essential relief materials.

 

The Heartbreaking Incident

The fatal crash took place at the Dakatsalle Bridge in the Kura Local Government Area of Kano State, approximately 50 kilometers from Kano city. The bus, conveying members of the Kano State contingent from the “Gateway Games 2024,” reportedly veered off the bridge and somersaulted.

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Initial reports on the number of fatalities varied, but it was later confirmed that 22 individuals lost their lives, including athletes, a journalist, medical personnel, and administrators. Seven other athletes sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment in various hospitals.

Many of the deceased had proudly represented Kano State at the festival, with some even bringing home gold medals. The incident has been widely described as a “painful tragedy” and a “sad day for Kano and the entire nation.”

 

Government’s Swift Response and National Condolences

The Kano State Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, announced the financial aid and relief efforts during a solemn condolence visit to Nasarawa Hospital, where most of the bodies were deposited. Speaking on behalf of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, who was reportedly in Saudi Arabia, Comrade Gwarzo expressed deep grief, emphasizing the profound loss for the state and the entire sporting community.

 

Governor Yusuf has ordered the immediate release of financial support to the victims’ families and directed that all injured survivors receive full medical attention at the state’s expense. The Deputy Governor also visited Murtala Mohammed Specialist Hospital to comfort the injured, assuring them of unwavering government support throughout their recovery.

 

Messages of sympathy and solidarity have poured in from across Nigeria. Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, host of the recent National Sports Festival, expressed profound shock and sorrow, lamenting the deaths of “gallant athletes.”

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, the Kano State Government, and the broader sports community.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also joined in mourning the athletes, stressing the importance of honoring their memory by taking strong, practical steps to improve transport safety nationwide.

 

Impact and Looking Forward

The incident has deeply saddened the sporting community and the people of Kano State. The Chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission, Umar Fagge, and the State Commissioner of Youth and Sport Development, Mustapha Kwankwaso, both confirmed the tragic details, expressing their devastation. Among the deceased were reportedly the Public Relations Officer of the Kano State Sports Commission and a photojournalist, highlighting the wide-reaching impact of the tragedy.

 

As families prepare for the somber burial rites, the Kano State Government has reiterated its commitment to supporting them “through the long road to healing and recovery.” This tragedy casts a shadow over the National Sports Festival, an event designed to foster unity and celebrate talent. There is now a strong and urgent call for significantly improved safety standards across Nigeria’s transportation systems to prevent such heartbreaking incidents from ever happening again.

“Today, the Kano State Sports Commission, and indeed our entire community, weeps for the lives lost in the recent tragic accident. We are particularly heartbroken by the passing of our dear colleague and townmate, Bilal Ahmad Maidoki Tamburawa.”

“Each of these athletes, including Bilal, was a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of sport. Though they are gone, their spirit and contributions will forever remain etched in our hearts and in the history of Kano State sports. Our thoughts and prayers are with all who loved them. May they find eternal rest,” Jamilu Aminu Mai Daraja shared via social media.