The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has issued a strong call for improved safety measures for athletes and officials following the tragic accident that claimed the lives of 21 members of Team Kano returning from the 22nd National Sports Festival, held in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Following its National Convention at the 2024 Gateway Games, SWAN leadership, in a communique signed by Chimezie Anaso, Samuel Ahmadu, and Segun Giwa, emphasised the critical need for proactive safety policies in all states involved in national sporting events.
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“The Convention emphasised the need for participating states to always prioritise and guarantee the safety of their athletes and officials,” the communiqué stated.
“This must be achieved particularly through the provision of roadworthy and secure transportation arrangements. Future contingents must ensure that travel logistics meet the highest standards of safety and comfort to protect lives and enhance performance.”
The resolution follows a devastating road crash near Gadar Yankifi along the Kaduna-Kano expressway on Saturday, involving a Kano State Government coaster bus (registration number KN 041 A17).
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) confirmed that 21 male passengers died at the scene, while three survivors — including the bus’s only female passenger — were taken to hospital with injuries.
FRSC spokesperson Olusegun Ogungbemide identified the victims as athletes, officials, and support staff who were returning from the recently concluded festival. Among them were wrestling and kickboxing competitors, journalists, sports referees, and medical personnel.
One of the deceased was Imam Umar Fagge, a football referee and younger brother of the acting chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission, Umar Fagge.
