Former Senator Shehu Sani has called on both Kano State and the Federal Government to immortalize the 21 athletes who died in a tragic motor accident while returning from the National Sports Festival held in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

In an emotional statement posted on his verified Facebook page, Sani described the incident as "a tragedy for Nigeria" and expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the young athletes who were just kilometers away from their destination when the accident occurred.

"They travelled hundreds of kilometers only to perish at a distance of 'Mun kusa shigowa' (We are almost home). They made their last calls and last messages before their exit to eternity. They died in active service for their state and country," Sani wrote.

The former lawmaker emphasized that Nigeria had lost "a vibrant generation who represented us and determined to make us proud" and proposed specific ways to honor their memory.

Calls for Meaningful Memorialization

Sani urged authorities to go beyond routine condolences and take concrete steps to preserve the legacy of the deceased athletes. His suggestions included naming streets after them and establishing a memorial at the accident site.

"Kano State and the Federal Government must do better to support their families and immortalise them. Streets should be named after them. The scene of the accident must have a memorial in their honour," he stated.

He further emphasized the importance of ensuring future generations remember the athletes' contributions: "The future generation should know about them and their sacrifices. We cannot bring them back to life but we can make their service and sacrifice immortal."

Concluding his tribute, Sani offered prayers for the deceased: "With tears in my eyes, I say to the spirits of the deceased, thank you for your service to humanity. We appreciate your lives. May Allah forgive their shortcomings and grant them Aljanna firdausi."

The athletes were part of Kano State's contingent to the recently concluded National Sports Festival and were on their way back home when the tragic accident occurred. The incident has sparked nationwide mourning, particularly in sporting circles and Kano State.