President Bola Tinubu on Saturday expressed his condolences to the families of Kano State’s sports delegation members who lost their lives in a road accident while returning from the recently concluded National Sports Festival in Ogun State.
In a statement released by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu extended his sympathies to the people and government of Kano State, as well as to the families affected by the tragic incident.
“This is a heartbreaking loss for the nation,” he said. “It casts a sombre shadow over the National Sports Festival, an event that symbolises unity, excellence, and national pride.”
The president honoured the memory of the victims, stating that their commitment and passion reflected the resilient spirit of Nigeria. He pledged that the nation would take firm steps to prevent future tragedies by improving safety standards in the transport sector.
President Tinubu also prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed and asked God to grant comfort and strength to the bereaved families.
In a related message, he conveyed deep concern over the severe flooding in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State, which has caused deaths and displaced many families.
“I offer my heartfelt condolences to the affected families and the people of Niger State,” he stated via his official X account on Friday evening.
President Tinubu immediately ordered the activation of the National Emergency Response Centre and has received full briefings from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on the scale of the disaster and the urgent humanitarian needs.
Search-and-rescue teams have been deployed, and relevant federal agencies have mobilised to support the Niger State Government. Relief materials and temporary shelters are being delivered as a matter of urgency.
“Our government stands with you,” Tinubu said. “We will work closely with the Niger State Government to ensure a swift and compassionate response that protects lives and aids recovery.”
The president also instructed security agencies to support emergency operations and mandated NEMA to provide continuous updates and coordination.
He urged all Nigerians to keep the people of Mokwa in their thoughts and prayers, stating, “In times of adversity, we must draw strength from our unity, resilience, and shared humanity.”