A tragic road accident has claimed the lives of 22 members of the Kano State contingent returning from the 22nd National Sports Festival, held in Abeokuta, Ogun State. The fatal crash occurred on Saturday, May 31, 2025, around 12:30 p.m. at Gadar Yankifi in Garun Malam Local Government Area along the Kano–Kaduna highway.
The victims, comprising athletes, coaches, medical personnel, and sports officials, were traveling in a Toyota Coaster bus with registration number KN041 A17. According to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the bus was carrying 32 occupants—31 male adults and one female adult. Preliminary investigations suggest that the crash may have been caused by factors such as over-speeding, driver fatigue, or mechanical failure.
Survivors of the accident were rushed to Nasarawa Specialist Hospital in Kano for medical treatment, while the remains of the deceased were also taken to the same facility. The Kano State Government has expressed deep sorrow over the incident, with the Commissioner of Youth and Sports Development, Mustapha Kwankwaso, extending heartfelt sympathies to the affected families.
The National Sports Festival, often referred to as the “Gateway Games,” is a biennial multi-sport event aimed at fostering unity and sports development across Nigeria. The Kano State contingent had participated in various events and were returning home when the unfortunate incident occurred.
This tragic event has cast a pall over the sporting community in Nigeria, with condolences pouring in from various quarters. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing the deceased as “the very best of our nation, dedicated, talented, and full of promise.”
As investigations continue to determine the exact cause of the accident, the nation mourns the loss of these promising individuals who had represented their state with pride and commitment.
NewsGlobal Reporters