20 Kano athletes who participated in the just-concluded 22nd National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State, lost their lives in a horrific road accident.
The fatal crash occurred on May 31, 2025, at Dakatsalle Bridge in Kura Local Government Area, of Kano State casting a somber shadow over what was meant to be a celebration of athletic achievement.
The 20 Kano athletes were part of the Kano State delegation that secured 29 medals at the Gateway Games 2024.
It was gathered that the tragic incident occurred when the bus, packed with at least 30 athletes from Kano State, plunged off a bridge into the abyss below.
The Chairman of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN, Kano State chapter, Zahraddeen Saleh, confirmed the incident.
Similarly, the State Commissioner of Youth and Sports Development, Mustapha Kwankwaso, confirmed the tragic death of the 20 Kano athletes in an official statement issued on Saturday.
He said others who sustained injuries were responding to treatment.
Kwankwaso expressed deep sorrow over the unfortunate motor accident involving members of the Kano State contingent to the National Sports Festival – Gateway 2024 held in Ogun State.
“On behalf of the Kano State Government and the good people of the state, extended heartfelt sympathies to the affected athletes, officials, and their families.
“This is a deeply painful moment for all of us. We are devastated by the news of the ghastly accident that occurred as our athletes were returning home after representing our great state with pride and commitment. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and the entire sporting community in Kano,” Kwankwaso stated.
