Kano, Nigeria – June 2, 2025
In a somber gesture of respect and mourning, the Kano State Government has declared Monday, June 2, 2025, a public holiday to honor the memory of 22 athletes who tragically lost their lives in a devastating auto crash over the weekend.
The athletes, part of Kano State’s contingent to the 22nd National Sports Festival held in Abeokuta, Ogun State, were returning home when their bus veered off the Chiromawa Bridge on the Kano-Zaria expressway. The accident occurred on Saturday, May 31, 2025, near Kuri, approximately 50 kilometers from Kano city. According to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), preliminary investigations suggest that driver fatigue and speeding were likely contributors to the fatal crash .
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, currently on pilgrimage for the 2025 Hajj, expressed profound sorrow over the incident. In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the governor conveyed heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and declared the public holiday to allow citizens to mourn and pray for the souls of the departed .
“It is with a deeply saddened heart that I received the tragic news of the unfortunate incident which claimed the lives of 22 innocent citizens and left several others injured,” Governor Yusuf stated. “On behalf of the government and the good people of Kano State, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. We mourn with you and share in your grief.”
In a show of solidarity, the Ogun State Government, where the athletes had competed, sent a delegation to Kano to commiserate with the bereaved families. The delegation, led by Ogun State Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele, presented a condolence letter and announced a support package of ₦1 million (approximately $630) for each of the victims’ families .
The National Sports Festival, a biennial event that brings together athletes from all 36 states of Nigeria, is a significant platform for discovering and nurturing sporting talent. The loss of these young athletes has cast a pall over the sporting community and the nation at large.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also extended his condolences, describing the tragedy as a “devastating blow” to the nation. He emphasized the importance of the National Sports Festival in promoting unity and excellence, noting that the loss of these athletes is a significant setback to the country’s sporting aspirations .
As the state observes this day of mourning, prayers and tributes are being offered across Kano and beyond for the souls of the departed athletes. The government has assured that all necessary efforts are being made to support the families and survivors during this challenging time.
This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for improved road safety measures and stricter enforcement of traffic regulations to prevent such devastating losses in the future.
