The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has begun investigating the tragic road crash that killed 22 athletes from Kano State.
Assistant Corps Marshal Ahmed Umar, the Zonal Commanding Officer overseeing Jigawa, Kaduna, and Katsina States, announced the investigation on Monday during a condolence visit to the Kano State Government House.
Reports confirmed that the crash occurred just a few kilometres from Kano, as the athletes returned from the National Sports Festival in Ogun State.
During the visit, Umar described the crash as “a devastating and tragic loss not just to Kano State, but to the entire country.” He noted that the athletes had performed admirably at the festival before their untimely deaths. “We have launched an in-depth investigation into the cause of this heart-wrenching crash. These young athletes were on national duty, promoting unity through sports, when tragedy struck,” he said.
Umar identified the crash site as a long-known blackspot and urged both state and federal authorities to urgently repair and secure such dangerous locations.
“We must act decisively, regardless of the cost, to prevent similar incidents. We cannot continue to lose lives this way,” he stressed.
He directed FRSC officials in Kano to stay proactive and regularly advise the state government about danger zones, deteriorating road conditions, and other traffic-related concerns across the state.
While expressing condolences to the government and people of Kano, Umar reaffirmed FRSC’s commitment to collaborating with the state to improve road safety and protect lives.
Responding on behalf of the governor, Kano State Deputy Governor Aminu Gwarzo thanked the FRSC team for their solidarity, describing the crash as one of the state’s darkest moments.
“We deeply appreciate your visit and concern over this tragic incident that claimed the lives of 22 of our citizens. It’s a huge and painful loss,” Gwarzo said.
He added that the government felt even more pained knowing the athletes had just finished representing the state at a national competition.
“They were so close to home—just a few kilometres from Kano—when this heartbreaking accident happened. It’s truly devastating,” he said.
Gwarzo reaffirmed the state government’s willingness to partner with the FRSC in enforcing road safety strategies to prevent future tragedies.
“This tragedy should serve as a wake-up call to all stakeholders. We must unite in protecting our citizens’ lives,” he urged.
He assured the public that the government would support the victims’ families and take the necessary steps to prevent a recurrence.
The crash, which has drawn national sympathy and outrage, has reignited concerns over the safety of Nigerian highways—especially those notorious for frequent fatal accidents.
