Kano Govt Pledges N1 Million, Relief Aid to Families of 22 Athletes Killed in Tragic Crash
By Mustapha Salisu
The Kano State Government has announced a donation of N1 million each to the families of the 22 athletes who tragically lost their lives in a motor accident while returning from the National Sports Festival held in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The government also plans to distribute food items and other relief materials to support the affected families.
The announcement was made by the Deputy Governor of Kano State, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, who spoke on behalf of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf during a condolence visit to Nasarawa Hospital where bodies of the deceased were deposited.
Comrade Gwarzo described the incident as a heartbreaking loss not only for Kano State but for the entire nation. He noted that the deceased were young, patriotic athletes who had proudly represented the state at a national event aimed at promoting unity and peaceful coexistence.
“It is a very sad day for us in Kano and for the entire country. These young men were returning from a national assignment, having represented Kano with distinction. Some were even returning with gold medals. Tragically, their journey was cut short just a few kilometers from home,” the Deputy Governor said.
He added that Governor Yusuf had directed the immediate release of financial support to the families and ordered that all necessary medical care be provided to the injured survivors.
“We have already identified 20 of the victims here, while two others have been taken home by their families. The Governor has directed that the state government stand fully with the bereaved families and ensure that those injured receive the best medical attention,” Gwarzo stated.
He assured the public that the government would continue to support the affected families and manage the aftermath of the tragedy with compassion and responsibility.
“On behalf of His Excellency, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, and the people of Kano State, we extend our deepest condolences to the families of the deceased. May Allah forgive their shortcomings and grant them Jannatul Firdaus,” he said.
The Deputy Governor also visited the Murtala Mohammed Specialist Hospital, where seven injured athletes are receiving treatment to sympathize with them.
