The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has extended its heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Kano State, as well as the bereaved families of the 21 young athletes who tragically lost their lives in a fatal auto crash at Gadar Yankifi, located in the Garun Malam Local Government Area of the state.
The heartbreaking incident occurred on Saturday as the athletes were returning home from the recently concluded National Sports Festival in Ogun State. The journey, which had been a celebratory return from a major national sporting event, ended in tragedy, plunging the state and the entire nation into mourning.
According to reports confirmed by the Kano State Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), 21 lives were lost in the crash, while 11 others sustained varying degrees of injuries. Emergency response teams were deployed to the scene, and the injured were promptly taken to nearby hospitals for medical attention.
The tragic accident has drawn widespread condolences and reactions from prominent figures and institutions across the country. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, and other national stakeholders have all expressed their sorrow and solidarity with the families of the victims and the Kano State Government.
NANS Mourns Kano Athletes Killed in Tragic Auto Crash, Urges Safety Measures
In a statement issued on Saturday by its National Public Relations Officer, Samson Adeyemi, NANS described the incident as a “devastating blow” not only to the affected families but also to the broader student and youth community across Nigeria.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to His Excellency, the Governor of Kano State, the Kano State Sports Council, and the good people of Kano during this profoundly difficult time,” the statement read.
Adeyemi highlighted the significant impact of the deceased athletes, noting that their dedication to representing their state through sports exemplified the spirit of national unity, excellence, and youth empowerment.
“This heartbreaking incident has cast a shadow of grief over the entire nation, particularly the youth and sports communities, as we mourn the untimely demise of these talented individuals who dedicated their lives to representing their state and uplifting the spirit of unity through sports. The loss of these bright stars is not only a personal tragedy for their families but a national loss that affects all of us,” Adeyemi stated.
He emphasized the urgent need for preventive measures to ensure that such tragedies do not reoccur, especially when athletes and students travel for official engagements. NANS called on both the federal and state governments to reevaluate and strengthen transport safety protocols for contingents attending national events.
“Furthermore, we urge both state and federal governments to prioritise the safety and welfare of athletes and citizens during travel to and from national events,” the statement continued. “This includes ensuring the use of roadworthy vehicles, well-trained drivers, and the strict enforcement of safety regulations.”
Adeyemi also stressed the importance of accountability and transparency, calling for a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash. He said the findings of the investigation should be made public and used to shape future transportation policies to safeguard the lives of Nigerians.
“A thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding this accident must be carried out to prevent future occurrences. We cannot afford to continue losing our promising youths to preventable road accidents,” he concluded.
As Nigeria mourns the young athletes who met their untimely deaths, the tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the risks often faced by students and athletes in the course of national service and participation. The call by NANS reinforces the importance of proactive governance and the protection of youth, who represent the country’s most valuable resource and its hope for a brighter future.
The National Sports Festival, designed to foster unity and celebrate athletic excellence, has now become a symbol of both achievement and grief. While the nation salutes the spirit of those who competed, it must also honor their memory by ensuring safer journeys for all who represent the country in various capacities.
