Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has declared Monday, June 2, 2025, a public holiday to honor the memory of 22 athletes who tragically lost their lives in a road accident. The athletes were returning from the National Sports Festival held in Abeokuta, Ogun State, when the incident occurred.
The governor, currently on pilgrimage for the 2025 Hajj, conveyed his condolences through a statement by his spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa. He urged the people of Kano to use the day to pray and sympathize with the families of the victims.
“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 statement read. “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.”
The accident occurred around 9 a.m. on Saturday, May 31, 2025, in Dakstalle town, Kura Local Government Area of Kano State. Eyewitnesses reported that the vehicle, carrying about 35 passengers—mainly athletes and officials—fell off a bridge, resulting in a devastating crash. The bus was the last of eight vehicles traveling with the Kano contingent.
In response to the tragedy, the Kano State government announced a cash donation of ₦1 million to each of the families of the deceased athletes and officials. Additionally, the government pledged to provide food items to assist the bereaved families in making arrangements for the immediate burial of their loved ones, in line with cultural and religious practices.
Deputy Governor Aminu Abdulsalam expressed the state’s deep sorrow over the loss and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to supporting the affected families during this difficult time.
The National Sports Festival, a biennial multi-sport event designed to promote peace and cross-cultural understanding in Nigeria, had just concluded in Abeokuta. The festival, dubbed the “Gateway Games,” featured athletes from various states competing in different sports.
The Kano State government has called on Imams and all Muslims, both in Kano and beyond, to offer prayers for the departed souls and for their families to find the strength to endure their loss.
This tragic incident has cast a pall over the state, as it mourns the loss of young talents who represented Kano with pride and dedication.
