Kano State Mourns: N1 Million Compensation Offered to Families of 21 Victims of Sports Festival Accident

In a tragic and heart-wrenching incident that has shaken not just Kano State but the entire nation of Nigeria, 21 athletes and officials from Kano lost their lives in a fatal motor accident. The accident occurred while the delegation was returning from the recently concluded National Sports Festival held in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

As a mark of respect and immediate support to the bereaved families, the Kano State Government, under the leadership of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, has announced a N1 million donation to each family of the deceased. This tragic event has cast a dark shadow over what was otherwise meant to be a celebration of athletic excellence and youth engagement in Nigeria.

The Tragic Kano Sports Festival Accident: What Happened?

The ill-fated journey began shortly after the conclusion of the 2024 National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, where athletes from across the country had gathered to showcase their talents in various sporting disciplines. The Kano State contingent, comprising athletes, officials, coaches, medical staff, and media personnel, had performed admirably and were on their way back home when tragedy struck.

The accident, which occurred on a major highway, claimed the lives of 21 individuals, including:

• Ibrahim Galadima, spokesperson of the Kano State Sports Commission

• Bilal Ahmad Salisu, the team’s official photographer

• Members of the kickboxing and wrestling teams

• Coaches and team secretaries

• Drivers and medical personnel

This devastating incident has plunged the entire sports community in Kano State into mourning, with citizens, officials, and stakeholders expressing deep sorrow at the immense loss.

Kano Deputy Governor Leads Condolence Visit

In the wake of this heartbreaking event, Kano State Deputy Governor Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo led a high-powered government delegation to Nasarawa Hospital, where most of the bodies had been deposited. During the visit, Gwarzo delivered a powerful and emotional message on behalf of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, describing the tragedy as a monumental loss.

“This is one of the saddest days in the history of our sports community,” said Gwarzo. “These young, dedicated individuals had represented Kano with pride and distinction. Some of them were even returning with medals—symbols of their hard work and patriotism. To lose them this way, so close to home, is a deep wound to us all.”

The statement reflects not just sorrow, but also admiration for the courage, resilience, and patriotism of those who died. Many of the deceased were young athletes who had demonstrated great potential and dedication to representing Kano State on a national platform.

N1 Million Compensation to Families of Each Victim

As a measure of immediate relief and support, the Kano State Government has pledged N1 million to each of the families of the deceased. This financial assistance is meant to help alleviate the burden of funeral costs and provide some comfort to the grieving households.

While no amount of money can truly compensate for the loss of a loved one, especially one so young and full of promise, this gesture has been widely acknowledged as a necessary step in showing solidarity and compassion.

The government has also promised to provide food items and essential materials to the families as they mourn and begin the painful process of healing.

Free Medical Care for Survivors of the Accident

In addition to supporting the families of the deceased, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has issued a directive that all injured survivors of the accident should receive comprehensive medical treatment at the state’s expense. The governor emphasized that the wellbeing and recovery of the survivors is a top priority for his administration.

“These individuals were on official duty, representing our state with honour. We will not abandon them in their time of need,” the governor reportedly said in a statement issued after the condolence visit.

Doctors at the hospital confirmed that several survivors were being treated for serious injuries, and arrangements were already underway to ensure they receive the best care possible. The gesture reflects a government that is responsive, compassionate, and deeply invested in the welfare of its people.

Public Reactions: Grief, Anger, and Questions

The tragic loss of the 21 Kano sports representatives has triggered an outpouring of grief on social media, with thousands of Nigerians expressing condolences and calling for improved transportation safety for sports delegations.

Many have raised concerns about the state of road travel for athletes in Nigeria, asking whether the government should now mandate the use of safer transport options—especially for large delegations traveling long distances.

“Why are we still transporting our athletes in overloaded, unsafe vehicles?” asked one Twitter user. “This is a national shame.”

Another wrote: “These were promising young men and women, some with medals in hand. Nigeria failed them.”

Such reactions have amplified calls for a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident and long-term reforms to ensure that such a tragedy never happens again.

The Legacy of the Deceased: Remembering Their Sacrifice

Among the dead were individuals who had dedicated years to the development of sports in Kano State. The late Ibrahim Galadima, for example, was not just a spokesperson, but also a passionate advocate for youth sports development. Bilal Ahmad Salisu, the team’s photographer, had captured some of the most iconic moments of Kano’s sports history in recent years.

The kickboxers and wrestlers who lost their lives were known for their discipline and perseverance. Some had even won medals at the Sports Festival, a testament to their hard work and commitment to excellence.

“These young people gave their all,” said Deputy Governor Gwarzo. “They were the pride of Kano. Their legacy must not be forgotten.”

National Mourning and Call for Support

As the state mourns, sports associations and organizations from across Nigeria have also sent in their condolences. The Federal Ministry of Sports, Nigerian Olympic Committee, and various state sports councils have expressed solidarity with Kano and called for national support for the grieving families.

There are already suggestions from stakeholders to name a stadium or sports facility in honour of the fallen heroes, ensuring that their memory lives on in the hearts of Nigerians.

Conclusion: A Call for Safer Sports Infrastructure

This tragic accident is not just a story of death and sorrow—it is a wake-up call. The Nigerian sports system must take urgent steps to address the welfare and safety of athletes and officials. This includes improving transport logistics, enforcing safety regulations, and ensuring that athletes are given the dignity they deserve while representing their states and the country.

The Kano State sports festival accident has left an indelible mark on the hearts of Nigerians. But in their memory, there is also an opportunity: a chance to reform, to remember, and to rebuild with compassion and responsibility.

As Kano State continues to mourn its lost sons and daughters, the nation must unite in offering support—not just in words, but in action. For in honouring them, we honour the spirit of Nigerian sportsmanship and patriotism.