Kano Government Announces N1 Million Donation to Each Family of Deceased Athletes, Officials

By: Olufemi Orunsola

The Kano State government has announced a cash donation of N1million to each of the families of the 22 athletes and officials from the state who tragically lost their lives in a road accident while returning from the National Sports Festival in Ogun State.

OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA OTN News repoets that the announcement was made by the Deputy Governor of the state, Aminu Abdulsalam, following a briefing from sports officials on the tragic incident.

In addition to the financial support, the government also pledged the provision of food items to the bereaved families to assist them in making arrangements for the immediate burial of their loved ones, in line with cultural and religious practices.

Abdulsalam expressed the state's deep sorrow over the loss and extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased.

He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to supporting them during this difficult time.

OTN News earlier reported that the athletes and officials died in the accident that occurred on Saturday, May 31, 2025, around 9am in Dakstalle town, Kura Local Government Area of Kano State.

According to eyewitnesses, the vehicle carrying about 35 passengers, mainly athletes and officials, fell off a bridge, resulting in a devastating crash.

The bus was the last of eight vehicles travelling with the Kano contingent.

Ado Salisu, one of the contingent members, had said, "We were travelling overnight from Ogun State after the completion of the National Sports Festival when the incident occurred. 

"The Kano contingents travelled with about 8 vehicles, and the bus that was involved in the accident was the last bus."

The accident which occurred 50 kilometres to Kano resulted in 22 fatalities, while several others sustained injuries and were rushed to the Kura General Hospital for emergency treatment.

Those confirmed dead include athletes, journalists, medical personnel and administrators," another eyewitness disclosed. 

The Kano State contingent had participated in the National Sports Festival, a biennial multi-sport event aimed at promoting peace and cross-cultural affiliation in Nigeria.

The festival, dubbed the "Gateway Games," was held in Ogun State and featured athletes from various states competing in different disciplines.