The Jigawa State Government has expressed profound grief over the tragic accident that claimed the lives of more than twenty athletes, coaches, and officials from neighboring Kano State who were returning from the National Sports Festival held in Ogun State.
According to a press statement signed by Hamisu Mohammed Gumel, Chief Press Secretary to the Government House and made available to the media, the fatal incident occurred on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at the Chiromawa Bridge along the Kano-Zaria expressway.
"This heartbreaking incident has left our hearts heavy with grief," the statement read, highlighting the profound impact of the tragedy on the region.
Governor Malam Umar Namadi, in his condolence message, described the deceased as "young, talented, and dedicated individuals who represented the very best of youth, sportsmanship, and service to their state and the nation at large."
The Governor extended his deepest condolences to his Kano State counterpart, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, the Government of Kano State, the bereaved families, and the entire sports community across Nigeria.
"We share in the pain and sorrow of this moment and pray for the repose of the souls of the departed and the speedy recovery of those who sustained injuries in the accident," Governor Namadi stated.
The statement emphasized that Jigawa State stands in solidarity with the people of Kano State during this difficult period. Governor Namadi prayed that Allah grants the deceased Aljannatul Firdaus (paradise), comforts the grieving families, and prevents such tragedies in the future.
The accident has drawn reactions from various quarters, with former presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar reportedly calling for stricter safety measures, while former Senator Shehu Sani has criticized the compensation offered to the victims' families as inadequate.
This tragic incident comes as the latest in a series of transportation accidents that have raised concerns about road safety in northern Nigeria, particularly on major highways connecting states in the region.
