The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, today paid a solemn visit to Kano State to deliver the heartfelt condolences of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and the Federal Government following the tragic accident that claimed the lives of 22 athletes and officials returning from the recently concluded National Sports Festival in Ogun State.
Just returning from London—where he attended the Unity Cup final as a special guest and engaged in strategic meetings aimed at boosting domestic sports—Mallam Dikko went directly to Kano upon arrival in Nigeria.
He was received by the Deputy Governor of Kano State, Comrade Aminu Abdulsallam Gwarzo, in the absence of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, who is currently on pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.
Also present were the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Farouk Ibrahim, the Head of Service, various commissioners, and top officials of the Kano State Sports Commission. Governor Yusuf, speaking from Saudi Arabia, expressed deep appreciation for the federal delegation’s show of solidarity.
During the visit, Mallam Dikko personally met with the bereaved families at different locations across Kano and visited nine injured athletes receiving treatment at Murtala Muhammed Hospital.
He conveyed the President’s message of compassion and support, stating:
“The NSC on behalf of the Federal Government has offered to interface with the state government to come up with a proper framework to support the families of the deceased and ensure full rehabilitation for the survivors. This tragedy affects us all—it marks a gravely somber moment in our sporting history.”
He emphasized the need for greater safety and welfare protocols around national sporting events and assured that the Federal Government stands solidly with the people of Kano during this difficult period.
The Deputy Governor, on behalf of the state, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and the NSC Chairman for their concern and pledged full cooperation with the Commission in providing support to those affected.
A representative of the grieving families, speaking at a community mosque alongside the Chief Imam, thanked the President and the NSC for their compassion and timely intervention.
Mallam Dikko was accompanied by senior NSC officials, including Director of Finance and Administration Alamin Mustapha, Director of Facilities Muhammed Rabiu, Director of Special Duties, and Hon. Ahmed Muazu Kawu, Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties and Protocol.
The visit marked a significant step in national efforts to comfort the grieving families and ensure lasting support for victims of the heartbreaking incident.
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