The Kano State Government has announced it will provide N1 million to each of the families of the 22 athletes who tragically lost their lives in a road accident while returning from the National Sports Festival held in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The announcement was made by the Deputy Governor of Kano State, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, during a condolence visit to Nasarawa Hospital, where the bodies of the deceased were deposited. He delivered the message on behalf of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
Describing the incident as a painful tragedy, Comrade Gwarzo expressed deep sorrow over the loss, noting that the athletes had represented Kano State with pride at the national event, with some of them even winning gold medals.
“This is a very sad day for Kano and the entire nation,” Gwarzo said. “These young athletes had just represented the state with pride at a national event, and some even won gold medals. Sadly, their lives were cut short just a few kilometers from home.”
He further stated that the state government would provide food and other essential relief items to support the grieving families during this difficult time. In addition to the N1 million compensation per family, Gwarzo said the injured athletes would receive full medical care on the orders of Governor Yusuf.
“We have identified 20 of the victims here, while two others have already been taken home by their families. The Governor has asked the state government to fully support the affected families and make sure the injured get the best treatment,” he added.
The Deputy Governor assured that the government would continue to stand by the bereaved families and handle the aftermath of the tragedy with compassion and responsibility.
“On behalf of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and the people of Kano State, we send our heartfelt condolences to the families of those who died. May Allah forgive their sins and grant them Jannatul Firdaus,” Gwarzo concluded.
Following the visit to Nasarawa Hospital, the Deputy Governor also stopped at Murtala Mohammed Specialist Hospital, where he met with seven injured athletes currently receiving treatment. He offered words of comfort and reiterated the government’s commitment to their recovery.
The entire state mourns the loss of these promising young individuals whose lives were cut short in service to their state and country.
