President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed profound sorrow over the tragic road accident involving members of the Kano State contingent returning from the recently concluded National Sports Festival held in Ogun State.
In a heartfelt message issued on Saturday, the President extended his condolences to the government and people of Kano State, as well as to the bereaved families of those who lost their lives in the incident.
“This is a heartbreaking tragedy that casts a dark cloud over what should have been a moment of national pride. The National Sports Festival celebrates unity, talent, and the enduring Nigerian spirit. To lose these young, vibrant individuals, many of them promising athletes, so suddenly is a devastating blow to the nation”, President Tinubu stated
The President paid tribute to the victims, describing them as symbols of Nigeria’s resilience and aspirations.
He emphasised that the best way to honour their memory is through meaningful action by enhancing safety protocols and ensuring better standards across the country’s transport systems to prevent similar tragedies.
President Tinubu also prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed souls and offered words of comfort to their grieving families and communities.
In a separate development, the President voiced serious concern over the recent flooding in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State, which has claimed lives and displaced many residents.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the affected families and the people of Niger State during this painful period,” Tinubu said in a post on his official X (formerly Twitter) account Friday night.
Upon receiving early reports of the flood disaster, President Tinubu immediately ordered the activation of the National Emergency Response Centre.
He has since been fully briefed by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on the scope of the crisis and the urgent humanitarian needs on the ground.
Rescue operations are currently underway, and federal agencies have been mobilised to support the state government in providing relief materials and temporary shelters to those affected.
“I assure all those impacted that the Federal Government stands with you. We are working closely with the Niger State Government to ensure a prompt, coordinated, and compassionate response one that prioritises lives, restores hope, and accelerates recovery”, he said.
Additionally, President Tinubu has directed security agencies to assist emergency efforts and instructed NEMA to provide continuous updates on the situation.
The President called on Nigerians to keep the people of Mokwa in their thoughts and prayers adding, “In moments of adversity, our strength lies in unity, resilience, and compassion,” he added.