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For the record:
… Delegation Led By Ogun Deputy Governor
BY ABU-SATAR HAMED
ABEOKUTA, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA – Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic accident that claimed the lives of 20 members of the Kano State contingent who were returning from the 22nd National Sports Festival (NSF), held in Ogun State.
In a statement issued from Abeokuta on Saturday, May 31, 2025, the Governor described the incident as traumatizing, noting that the victims were vibrant young athletes who had represented Kano State with honour and were looking forward to a warm welcome at home.
“It is indeed saddening and distressing that 20 gallant athletes who had represented Kano State at the just concluded Gateway 2024 games have lost their lives in the most traumatizing and painful circumstances,” he said.
Governor Abiodun offered heartfelt condolences to the Kano State Government and its people, praying for the repose of the souls of the departed.
He hailed them as heroes whose patriotism and commitment would not be forgotten.
“These were young people, budding stars that had a lot to give the country with their talents, skills, and creativity. It is tragic that their families, who were looking forward to receiving them, will never see them again”, he added.
Abiodun further extended his sympathies to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, his cabinet, and Umar Bala Fagge, Chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission.
In a show of solidarity, Governor Abiodun, on Sunday, June 1, 2025, dispatched a powerful delegation to Kano State to officially commiserate with the government and families of the deceased.
As a mark of support, the Governor also approved ₦1 million to each of the 31 affected families, totaling ₦31 million, as initial assistance to cushion the impact of their loss.
The Ogun delegation was led by Deputy Governor Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, and included Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, Secretary to the State Government; Hon. Wasiu Isiaka, Commissioner for Sports Development; Dr. Kweku Tandoh, Executive Secretary, Gateway Games LOC; Comrade Lanre Ogunyinka, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Sports; Coach Idris Oguntayo, Team Ogun; Ms. Atinuke Onabiyi and Mr. Ayomide Oyegbade, athletes from Team Ogun. They were received by Kano State Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdusalam Gwarzo.
Speaking on behalf of the Ogun State Government, Engr. Salako-Oyedele conveyed the Governor’s personal sense of loss, stressing the emotional impact the incident had on everyone involved in the festival.
“We felt we had to be here to show our support to the Governor, the Government and the people of Kano State in these trying times.”
She praised emergency responders and offered prayers for those still hospitalized, while also praying for Aljanat Firdaus for the deceased and comfort for their families.
In response, the Kano Deputy Governor expressed deep appreciation for the visit, acknowledging the heartfelt call from Governor Abiodun the previous day.
He said Kano State had no doubt about Ogun State’s concern, especially given the swift response and solidarity shown.
Recall that a bus conveying the Kano athletes was involved in a fatal accident approximately 50 kilometres from Kano, after passing through Kaduna State, as they returned from the Gateway 2024 Games.
The incident resulted in the deaths of 20 athletes and left several others injured.
