In a heartfelt tribute to the 22 Kano athletes who tragically lost their lives in a road accident in May 2025, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has announced that the state’s prominent sports institutions will now bear the names of the fallen heroes.
The announcement was made during a ceremonial visit by representatives of the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mrs. Remi Tinubu, who also generously donated ₦110 million to support the bereaved families. This act of kindness was warmly received by the grieving families and provided them with much-needed relief during a difficult time.
Renaming of Key Sports Institutions
The Governor disclosed that the Kano State Sports Institute will now be known as the Kano State 22 Athletes Sports Institute, while the Kano State Sports Commission will be renamed the Kano State 22 Athletes Sports Commission. This renaming aims to honour the memory and sacrifice of the 22 athletes who were returning from the National Sports Festival when the tragic accident occurred just five kilometres outside Kano.
“These young heroes made Kano proud. They should be remembered forever. Their commitment and sacrifice to the state will not be forgotten,” Governor Yusuf remarked.
The governor’s tribute highlighted the significance of the athletes’ contributions to the state’s pride and legacy in sports, expressing a deep sense of loss and appreciation for their service.
Support for Bereaved Families
Mrs. Remi Tinubu, who visited the Governor alongside her representatives, extended a substantial gesture of support by donating ₦110 million to the families of the deceased. Governor Yusuf expressed his gratitude for this compassionate donation, acknowledging that the families were going through “unimaginable grief.” He added that the donation would not only provide financial assistance but also serve as a gesture of recognition for the fallen athletes.
“We are grateful to Her Excellency, the First Lady, for this generous support. These families are going through unimaginable grief, and this act of kindness provides not only relief but also recognition,” Governor Yusuf said.
Government’s Continued Support
Further demonstrating the state government’s commitment to the welfare of the bereaved families, Governor Yusuf pledged continued support. He announced that the state would fully sponsor the education of the children of the deceased athletes. Additionally, the wives of the deceased would be included in government empowerment programs, with a commitment to supporting the parents of athletes who were not married.
“The education of their children will be fully sponsored by the state, and their wives will be included in our government’s empowerment programmes. For those without wives, we will ensure their parents are not left out of this support drive,” Yusuf assured.
A Tragic Accident and National Mourning
The devastating accident, which occurred just five kilometres away from the state capital, sent shockwaves throughout the nation and the sports community. The athletes, who had represented Kano at the National Sports Festival, were returning home after reportedly delivering outstanding performances.
In an official statement from the Governor’s office, Chief Press Secretary Mustapha Muhammad emphasised that the 22 athletes were “heroes who fought for the successes of Kano.” Governor Yusuf reaffirmed that their legacy of dedication, patriotism, and excellence would be immortalised.
A Lasting Tribute
The renaming of these two vital sports institutions is seen as a lasting symbol of respect and remembrance for the athletes. The new names will serve as a reminder to future generations of the sacrifices made by these young sportsmen and women, who proudly wore Kano’s colours.
This tribute is expected to resonate deeply with both the local and national sporting community, highlighting the state’s unwavering commitment to honouring its fallen heroes.
