President Bola Tinubu has described the unfortunate accident involving members of the Kano State contingent who were returning from the recently concluded National Sports Festival in Ogun State as a devastating blow to the nation.
In a condolence message by his media aide, Bayo Onanuga, on Saturday, Tinubu said he received the news with deep sorrow and shock.
Tinubu said the Federal Government and his entire cabinet are with the government and people of Kano State at this trying time.
He equally condoled with the families and loved ones of those who died in the accident.
According to the Nigerian President, “This is a devastating blow to the nation. It casts a shadow over the National Sports Festival, a celebration of unity, talent, and excellence. It has long served as a platform for discovering and nurturing athletes who bring pride to Nigeria on both national and international stages.”
He paid tribute to the victims, saying their dedication and aspirations in their various vocations embodied the resilient Nigerian spirit.
“The greatest honour the country can accord them is to take concrete steps to prevent such tragedies in the future and improve safety standards across the nation’s transportation systems,” Tinubu vowed.
He also prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed and asked God Almighty to grant strength and comfort to the bereaved families.
Meanwhile, the President has expressed deep concern over the severe flooding in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State.
The flooding, which occurred on Wednesday, led to the loss of over 100 lives and the displacement of numerous families.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the affected families and the good people of Niger State at this difficult time,” the President stated on his X handle on Friday night.
Expressing his grief, Tinubu said upon receiving the initial reports, he directed the immediate activation of the National Emergency Response Centre.
He said he has since been fully briefed by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on the scale of the disaster and the urgent humanitarian needs.
Search-and-rescue operations are underway, and all relevant federal agencies have been mobilised to support the Niger State Government’s response. Relief materials and temporary shelters are being deployed without delay.
“I assure all those impacted that our government stands with you. We will continue to coordinate with the Niger State Government to ensure a swift, coordinated, and compassionate response—one that prioritises lives, restores dignity, and accelerates recovery,” the President said.
The number one citizen also directed security agencies to assist in emergency operations and mandated that NEMA and the National Emergency Response Centre provide continuous coordination and updates.
He called on all Nigerians to keep the people of Mokwa in their thoughts and prayers.
“In times of adversity, we draw strength from our unity, resilience, and shared humanity,” the President said in a personal statement.
