The Nigeria Governors' Forum (NGF) has expressed profound sadness over the tragic death of 22 Kano athletes who lost their lives in a devastating road accident on Saturday.

The accident occurred when a bus carrying the athletes and officials plunged off a bridge while they were returning home from the recently concluded National Sports Festival in Ogun State. The crash resulted in multiple casualties and severe injuries.

In a statement signed by NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the forum described the incident as "not just a loss to Kano State but also to the entire sports community in Nigeria."

"We express our condolences to the families of the athletes, the state government and, ultimately, the sporting community in both Kano State and Nigeria," the statement read.

The governors further prayed for Allah to repose the souls of the deceased athletes and provide comfort to their bereaved families during this difficult period.

This tragedy has cast a shadow over what should have been a celebratory return for the athletes who had represented their state at the national competition. The incident has sparked an outpouring of condolences from across the country, including from Senator Jibrin who also mourned the death of the athletes.

The accident highlights ongoing concerns about road safety in Nigeria, particularly for sports teams and delegations who often travel long distances by road to participate in national competitions.