KANO, Nigeria — At least 21 athletes from Kano State are feared dead following a devastating accident involving their bus on Saturday, May 31, 2025, as they returned from the National Sports Festival held in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The Kano State Sports Commission confirmed the incident, which occurred at the Dakatsalle Bridge in Kura Local Government Area.
The athletes were aboard a bus owned by the commission when it reportedly veered off the bridge and overturned.
Umar Faggie, chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission, told reporters that the crash has left the entire state in mourning.
Emergency responders have so far rescued multiple survivors, who are receiving treatment at Kura General Hospital.
The exact number of the injured is still unknown as rescue efforts continue.
Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene with personal effects scattered along the roadside, and several bodies trapped under the wreckage.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar led the chorus of condolences, calling the incident a “profound loss” to Nigeria’s sporting community.
In a heartfelt message posted to his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Atiku wrote:
“These young men and women who have been cut in their prime represent the very best of our nation; dedicated, talented, and full of promise. Their untimely passing is a profound loss not only to their families and the people of Kano but to the entire country.”
He called on authorities to enforce stricter transport safety protocols to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Many on social media have questioned the state of the vehicle, the training of its driver, and the logistics behind transporting dozens of athletes over long distances without adequate safety oversight.
Flags have been lowered at half-mast across the commission’s facilities, and grief counselling is being arranged for affected families and teammates.
As the nation awaits further updates, tributes continue to pour in from around the country, with fellow athletes, coaches, and sports administrators expressing shock and sorrow.
