The Nigeria Olympic Committee Athletes Commission (NOAC), has expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with the people of Kano State following the tragic road accident that claimed the lives of 22 members of the state’s contingent returning from the 22nd National Sports Festival held in Ogun State.
The fatal accident occurred near Dakatsalle town, approximately 50 kilometers from Kano, involving one of the buses transporting the athletes and officials.
In a statement issued on behalf of the Commission, Olumide Oyedeji, Chairman of the Nigeria Olympic Committee Athletes Commission and 3rd Vice President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, described the incident as a devastating loss to the Nigerian sports community.
“The news of the accident that led to the death of 19 individuals from the Kano State sports delegation came as a rude shock. Our hearts are with the people of Kano, and we pray for strength for the families to bear this irreplaceable loss,” Oyedeji said.
He emphasized that the tragedy should serve as a wake-up call to prioritize athlete safety and improve travel logistics for national sporting events.
“As an athletes’ commission, we recommend that each state invest in safe and well-coordinated transportation systems for athletes participating in national tournaments,” he stated.
Oyedeji added that such a heartbreaking event must prompt meaningful action to prevent future occurrences.
“This tragedy must not be in vain. It should compel relevant stakeholders to establish effective strategies to safeguard our athletes and officials in the future.”
Also speaking, the President, Nigeria Olympic Committee, Habu Gumel, prayed for departed souls.
“Today, when the news broke is a black Saturday for Nigeria sports. I pray that God gives the families the fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss.”
