21 Kano Athletes Killed in Fatal Road Accident Returning from National Sports Festival
Kano State has been plunged into mourning following the death of 21 athletes returning from the National Sports Festival held in Abeokuta, Ogun State. The tragic road accident occurred at Dakatsalle Bridge and involved a bus carrying 30 members of the Kano State contingent.
The Chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission, Umar Bala Fagge, confirmed the incident in a statement issued on Saturday. He said the vehicle fell into the bridge, leading to the deaths of several athletes, with others rushed to Kura General Hospital for treatment.
“This is a heartbreaking moment for Kano and for Nigerian sports,” Fagge stated. “Among the deceased is the son of Salisu Jegus, a respected sports correspondent with Express Radio.”
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The Federal Road Safety Corps in Kano State has yet to release an official statement. Attempts to reach the sector commander for confirmation were unsuccessful as calls and messages went unanswered.
The loss of these athletes—many of them young and promising—has sparked nationwide grief and renewed concerns over the safety of road travel for sports contingents in Nigeria. Advocacy for better transportation logistics, including the use of more secure vehicles and trained drivers, is now growing louder among stakeholders in the sporting community.
The National Sports Festival, a key event in Nigeria’s athletics calendar, concluded only days ago in Abeokuta. The tragedy casts a shadow over what was supposed to be a celebration of sporting talent and unity.
Condolences have started pouring in from sports authorities, government officials, and grieving families, with many calling for a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash.
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