The President of the Research Institute Games of Nigeria (RIGAN), Prof. Owolade Oluwaferanmi, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic road crash that claimed the lives of 20 athletes and officials from Kano State. The victims were returning from the recently concluded Gateway Games in Abeokuta, Ogun State, when the unfortunate incident occurred on May 31, 2025.
In a condolence message released on Sunday, Prof. Oluwaferanmi, on behalf of the RIGAN Council, extended heartfelt sympathies to the National Sports Commission, the Kano State Government, and the bereaved families of the deceased.
“We are deeply saddened by the unfortunate incident that claimed the lives of 20 athletes and officials from Kano State. This tragic loss has cast a dark shadow over the entire Nigerian sports community. We pray for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed and extend our thoughts and prayers to their grieving families, teammates, and loved ones,” the statement read.
Describing the deceased athletes as “promising talents” and national assets, Prof. Oluwaferanmi urged the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the accident and implement improved road safety measures, particularly for the safe movement of sports contingents across the country.
“The loss of these promising athletes is a profound tragedy for the nation. We must unite in support of the affected families and redouble efforts to ensure such heartbreaking occurrences are prevented in the future,” he added.
While praying for the speedy recovery of those injured in the crash, RIGAN reaffirmed its solidarity with the National Sports Commission, the Kano State Government, and Nigeria’s sports fraternity during this period of national mourning.
