Tragedy has struck Nigeria, with President Bola Tinubu receiving the devastating news of an accident involving members of the Kano State contingent returning from the National Sports Festival in Ogun. The President has extended his deepest condolences to the government and people of Kano State, as well as to the families of the victims. This tragic event has cast a shadow over the National Sports Festival, a celebration of unity, talent, and excellence that has long served as a platform for discovering and nurturing athletes who bring pride to Nigeria.

The President has paid tribute to the accident victims, acknowledging their dedication and aspirations, which embodied the resilient Nigerian spirit. He has affirmed that the greatest honor 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. President Tinubu has prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed and asked God Almighty to grant strength and comfort to the bereaved families.

In a related development, President Tinubu has expressed concern over the flooding in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger, which has led to the loss of lives and displacement of numerous families. He has extended his heartfelt condolences to the affected families and the people of Niger State, stating that his government stands with them during this difficult time. The President has directed the immediate activation of the National Emergency Response Centre and has been 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, with all relevant federal agencies mobilized to support the Niger State Government’s response. Relief materials and temporary shelters are being deployed without delay, with the President assuring those impacted that his government will continue to coordinate with the Niger State Government to ensure a swift, coordinated, and compassionate response. The President has 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 has called on all Nigerians to keep the people of Mokwa in their thoughts and prayers, emphasizing that in times of adversity, the country draws strength from its unity, resilience, and shared humanity.