NSF Tragedy: Abiodun Sends Delegation to Kano, Donates ₦31 Million to Families of Late Athletes
In a heart-touching show of compassion and national solidarity, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has extended his condolences and support to the families of the Kano State athletes and officials who tragically lost their lives in a road accident. The victims were returning from the recently concluded National Sports Festival (NSF) hosted in Ogun State when their vehicle was involved in a fatal crash.
In a swift response, Governor Abiodun dispatched a high-level delegation to Kano, led by the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele. The delegation also included the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi; the Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka; and Dr. Kweku Tandoh, the Executive Secretary of the Gateway Games Local Organising Committee.
During their visit, the Ogun State government made a financial donation of ₦31 million to the bereaved families. Each of the 31 affected families received ₦1 million as a gesture of support and compassion in their moment of grief.
Speaking during the condolence visit, Deputy Governor Salako-Oyedele conveyed Governor Abiodun’s deep sorrow and heartfelt condolences. “The entire Ogun State grieves with you. This is not just a loss for Kano, but a loss for Nigeria as a whole. These young athletes came to participate in a festival meant to unite and celebrate talent, but sadly, it ended in tragedy,” she said.
She added that while no amount of money can replace the lives lost, the financial support was aimed at easing the immediate burdens on the grieving families and demonstrating that they are not alone in their pain.
The Kano State Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu AbdulSalam Gwarzo, received the delegation on behalf of the state government and families of the victims. He expressed sincere gratitude to the Ogun State Government for the kind gesture and empathy shown during this painful time.
“This visit and support are deeply appreciated. It shows the unity and brotherhood that exists among us as Nigerians, regardless of geography. We thank Governor Abiodun for this humanitarian act,” Gwarzo said.
The accident, which claimed 22 lives including young athletes, coaches, and team officials, has cast a dark cloud over what was meant to be a celebration of youth and national unity through sports. The victims had represented Kano State at the 2024 National Sports Festival in Ogun State and were on their way back when the tragic incident occurred on the Kano-Zaria expressway near the Chiromawa Bridge.
Eyewitnesses and early reports indicate that the bus carrying the delegation veered off the road and plunged into a ravine. Several others were injured and remain in hospitals receiving treatment.
Beyond financial assistance, the Ogun State delegation also offered prayers for the repose of the deceased souls and comfort for the families left behind. They assured the Kano government of continued support and emphasized that Ogun State remains committed to honoring the memories of the departed.
Many Nigerians have praised Governor Abiodun’s response as an exemplary act of leadership, empathy, and national unity. On social media, tributes continue to pour in for the deceased, with renewed calls for improved safety measures for national athletes and better coordination in interstate transportation logistics.
This tragedy, though painful, has also become a rallying point for unity and compassion. It has shown that in difficult times, the Nigerian spirit of togetherness remains strong. Governor Abiodun’s actions remind us that real leadership is shown not only through policies but through humanity, love, and timely intervention.