Sokoto Governor Mourns Kano Athletes, Niger Flood Victims
Sokoto Governor Mourns Kano Athletes, Niger Flood Victims
Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State has expressed deep sorrow over the recent national tragedies that have thrown many families into mourning—the loss of young Kano athletes in a ghastly auto crash and the devastating floods that struck Mokwa in Niger State.
In a statement released by his media office, Governor Aliyu conveyed heartfelt condolences to the governments and people of Kano and Niger States, urging Nigerians to unite in compassion during these difficult times.
Tragic Loss of Kano State Athletes
The nation was left stunned following the heartbreaking news of the death of 22 Kano State athletes, most of them teenagers, who were returning home after participating in the National Sports Festival. The tragic incident occurred along the Abuja-Kaduna expressway, where their bus was involved in a fatal accident.
Governor Aliyu described the incident as a “monumental loss not only to Kano State but to the entire Nigerian sporting community.” He emphasized the importance of supporting the bereaved families and commended the athletes’ dedication, noting that they had represented their state with pride and patriotism.
“These were promising young stars with bright futures ahead of them. Their untimely deaths are a huge blow to the nation. We mourn with their families and stand in solidarity with the people of Kano State,” the governor said.
Flood Disaster in Niger State
In addition to mourning the Kano athletes, Governor Aliyu extended his sympathies to the victims of the deadly floods in Mokwa, Niger State. The flood, triggered by torrential rainfall and the bursting of a dam, claimed over 200 lives, with many others missing and thousands displaced.
Aliyu lamented the loss of lives and properties and called on federal and state authorities to strengthen disaster management systems and invest in preventive infrastructure such as proper drainage systems, embankments, and early warning mechanisms.
“Our hearts go out to the families in Mokwa who have lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods. This tragedy underscores the need for proactive environmental planning and greater attention to climate resilience,” he said.
Call for National Unity and Preparedness
Governor Aliyu emphasized that these tragic events should serve as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of unity. He urged Nigerians to rally behind affected communities, support government interventions, and pray for healing and restoration.
“We must not only mourn; we must act. Let these moments of grief awaken us to the urgency of better infrastructure, road safety enforcement, and disaster preparedness. The government at all levels must work hand-in-hand with stakeholders to safeguard the lives of our people,” the governor added.
Support and Relief Efforts
According to reports, relief materials are being mobilized by various state and federal agencies, with humanitarian groups already on the ground in Niger State to assist flood victims. Sokoto State, through its emergency management agency, has also offered to send relief items to Niger and Kano as a show of solidarity.
Governor Aliyu pledged Sokoto’s continued support for all national efforts to address both the immediate consequences and root causes of such tragedies. He called for urgent attention to Nigeria’s infrastructural gaps—especially in the transportation and environmental sectors—to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
The dual tragedies of the Kano athletes’ accident and the Niger flood have cast a dark cloud over the nation, but the outpouring of grief, solidarity, and support from leaders like Governor Ahmed Aliyu gives hope that healing and meaningful action are possible.
As Nigeria mourns, these events should prompt a collective resolve to protect lives, promote safety, and build a more resilient society. The Sokoto governor’s empathetic response exemplifies the kind of leadership needed in times of national sorrow.