The House of Representatives has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of 22 members of the Kano State contingent who died in a fatal road crash while returning from the 22nd National Sports Festival held in Ogun State.
The House of Representatives conveyed its sympathies in a statement issued on Monday, by its spokesman, Rep. Akin Rotimi Jr.
The accident occurred along the Zaria-Kano Expressway on Saturday, May 31, 2025, claiming the lives of athletes, coaches, health workers, sports administrators, and journalists.
Several others were also reported injured in the crash, which came just days after the close of the biennial multi-sport event, popularly known as Gateway Games 2025.
In his reaction, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, described the tragedy as a “national loss,” urging the Kano State Government and relevant authorities to immortalise the fallen athletes and officials.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased athletes and the Government and people of Kano State at this moment of grief,” Speaker Abbas said.
“This is one unfortunate incident too many. May Allah (SWT) grant the bereaved families the fortitude to bear these irreparable losses.”
The 22nd National Sports Festival featured over 10,000 athletes from Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, celebrating youth, sportsmanship, and unity.
The tragic turn of events has cast a pall over what was otherwise a landmark celebration of national talent.
Chairman of the House Committee on Sports, Rep. Kabiru Ahmadu, also voiced his condolences, calling it a “dark and painful moment” for the Nigerian sports community.
“It is incredibly heartbreaking that young and promising athletes, alongside their officials who had just served the nation with pride and commitment, lost their lives in such tragic circumstances,” said Rep. Ahmadu.
“May Allah (SWT), in His infinite mercy, grant them peace and comfort those they leave behind.”
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Rep. Ahmadu added that the House Committee on Sports would intensify oversight efforts to engage relevant stakeholders in strengthening safety and transportation protocols for future national sporting events, particularly those involving youth participants.
The House of Representatives also extended its condolences to the Kano State House Caucus, the government and people of the state, and the entire Nigerian sports fraternity.
The statement commended emergency responders for their swift intervention and called on all relevant agencies to ensure that the injured receive top-tier medical care.
In addition to immediate medical response, the House called for both financial and psychological support to be provided to the families of the deceased victims.
“These athletes and officials exemplified courage, excellence, and national pride,” the statement concluded.
“Their dreams and sacrifices shall not be in vain. May their souls find peace, and may their legacy continue to inspire generations to come.”
