Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has declared Monday a public holiday in memory of 22 athletes and officials who died in a fatal road accident. The victims were returning from the National Sports Festival held in Abeokuta, Ogun State, when their vehicle crashed along the Kano–Zaria expressway. Most of those who died were young athletes representing the state.
The announcement came through a statement issued on Sunday by the Governor’s spokesperson, Mr Sanusi Bature. Governor Yusuf, currently in Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage, described the event as a heartbreaking tragedy and a dark moment for the people of Kano.
He expressed deep sorrow over the loss, extending condolences on behalf of the state government to the families affected. He urged residents to stay united and composed during this painful time, promising that the government would provide support to both the families of the deceased and the injured survivors.
The Governor also called on religious leaders and residents across the state to offer prayers for the victims, asking for divine comfort and healing for their grieving families.
