The Nigeria Football Federation has expressed grave sorrow and grief over the death on Saturday of 22 Kano State athletes who lost their lives in an auto crash on their way from the 22nd National Sports Festival in Ogun State.
“The Nigeria Football Federation and the entire Nigeria football family are in a period of mourning over the demise of these athletes in such tragic circumstances. We mourn deeply with the Kano State Government and all the good and great people of Kano State, on this sad incident” President of NFF, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau said.
The athletes died 50 kilometres to the city of Kano when their vehicle veered off the road and crashed into a river.
“Our hearts are with their families, friends, loved ones and associates. We pray that the Almighty Allah will grant them eternal rest, and also comfort those they have left behind, as well as the Kano State Government and the people of Kano State in general.”
Similarly, the Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF) has extended its condolences to the Kano State Government, the Nigerian sports community, and the families of the deceased.
In a statement issued by its President, Honourable Daniel Igali, the federation described the incident as a national tragedy.
“It is with great sadness that we send our heartfelt condolences to the Kano State Government, the sports fraternity in the state and the entire country for this great loss of lives.”
“We must absolutely give all the support necessary to the victims’ loved ones because this is devastating”
“Kano is in mourning, likewise the sports family across the country, and we pray Almighty God gives the family the strength to bear this because this is urge,” NWF noted.