The Kano State Government has declared Monday, June 2, 2025, a public holiday to mourn and express sympathy with the families of the 22 young athletes, coaches, and officials who died in a tragic auto crash.
The victims were returning from the recently concluded National Sports Festival in Ogun State.
Governor Abba Yusuf, currently in Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj, described the accident as a “dark moment” for the state, noting that it claimed the lives of some of Kano’s most promising youths.
In a statement released Saturday and signed by his spokesperson, Sanusi Tofa, the governor expressed deep sorrow and extended condolences to the bereaved families and the entire sports community.
“It is with a deeply saddened heart that I received the tragic news of the unfortunate incident which claimed the lives of 22 innocent citizens and left several others injured,” the governor was quoted as saying.
“On behalf of the government and the good people of Kano State, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. We mourn with you and share in your grief.”
The statement confirmed that the victims were part of Kano’s official delegation to the National Sports Festival and included athletes, coaches, and other state officials.
The accident occurred along the Kano–Zaria expressway.
“This tragedy is a collective loss that has thrown the entire state into mourning. Most of the victims were young, vibrant talents who went out to make Kano proud at a national stage,” the statement read.
Governor Yusuf urged the public to remain calm and united during this difficult time, assuring them that the government will provide all necessary support to the families of the deceased and the injured survivors.
To honor their memories, the governor directed that Monday be observed as a public holiday, encouraging residents across the state to use the day for reflection, prayer, and to support the grieving families.
The statement added, “As a mark of honour and respect, His Excellency has directed that Monday, June 2, 2025, be declared a public holiday for the people of Kano to mourn and pray for the departed souls.”
The state government also appealed to Islamic clerics and the wider Muslim community within and outside Kano to offer special prayers for the victims and ask for strength and patience for the bereaved families.
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