President Bola Tinubu has described the fatal accident involving members of the Kano State sports contingent as "a devastating blow to the nation," expressing deep sorrow and shock over the tragedy.
In a condolence message released on Saturday through his media aide, Bayo Onanuga, the President extended sympathies to the government and people of Kano State following the accident that claimed the lives of athletes returning from the recently concluded National Sports Festival in Ogun State.
"This is a devastating blow to the nation. It casts a shadow over the National Sports Festival, a celebration of unity, talent, and excellence," Tinubu stated, noting that the festival has long served as a platform for discovering and nurturing athletes who represent Nigeria with pride nationally and internationally.
The President paid tribute to the victims, emphasizing that their dedication and aspirations embodied the resilient Nigerian spirit. He pledged that the greatest honor the country could accord them would be taking concrete steps to prevent similar tragedies in the future and improving safety standards across Nigeria's transportation systems.
While reports indicate that 21 members of the Kano sports delegation died in the accident, the President assured that the Federal Government and his entire cabinet stand with the government and people of Kano State during this difficult period.
Tinubu Responds to Niger State Flooding
In a separate development, President Tinubu also expressed deep concern over severe flooding in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State, which reportedly claimed over 100 lives and displaced numerous families on Wednesday.
The President revealed that he had directed the immediate activation of the National Emergency Response Centre upon receiving initial reports of the disaster. He confirmed being fully briefed by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on the scale of the catastrophe and the urgent humanitarian needs.
"I assure all those impacted that our government stands with you. We will continue to coordinate with the Niger State Government to ensure a swift, coordinated, and compassionate response—one that prioritizes lives, restores dignity, and accelerates recovery," Tinubu stated in a message posted on his X handle Friday night.
According to the President, search-and-rescue operations are underway, with all relevant federal agencies mobilized to support Niger State's response efforts. Relief materials and temporary shelters are being deployed without delay.
The President has also directed security agencies to assist in emergency operations and mandated NEMA and the National Emergency Response Centre to provide continuous coordination and updates on the situation.
"In times of adversity, we draw strength from our unity, resilience, and shared humanity," the President concluded, calling on all Nigerians to keep the people of Mokwa in their thoughts and prayers.
