Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has declared Monday a public holiday in honour of the 22 athletes and officials from the state who died in a tragic road accident while returning from the recently concluded National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The announcement was made on Sunday through a statement by the Governor’s spokesperson, Mr. Sanusi Bature. The victims, mostly young athletes, were part of the Kano State contingent that represented the state in various competitions at the festival.
“On behalf of the government and the good people of Kano State, we extend our heartfelt condolences over the unfortunate incident that occurred along the Kano–Zaria expressway,” the statement read.
Governor Yusuf, who is currently in Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj, described the tragedy as a “dark moment” in the history of Kano State.
“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,” the Governor said.
In a show of solidarity, Yusuf declared Monday a work-free day to honour the memory of the deceased. He also called on all residents of the state to remain calm and united in mourning the lives lost.
The Governor assured that the state government would provide necessary support to the families of the deceased and those injured in the accident. He emphasized that Kano State would stand by the victims’ families during this difficult time.
He further urged religious leaders and faithful across the state and beyond to offer special prayers for the souls of the departed and for strength and comfort for their grieving families.
The tragic accident has cast a shadow over the National Sports Festival, which is Nigeria’s top sporting event for young athletes from across the country. The Kano team was on its way back from the games when the incident occurred on the Kano–Zaria highway.
The loss has sparked widespread mourning, with tributes pouring in from across the state and nation. Monday’s public holiday is expected to be observed with solemn remembrance events and prayer sessions in mosques and homes across Kano.
