Kano Government Declares Monday a Public Holiday to Mourn Late Athletes

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has proclaimed Monday, June 2, 2025, as a public holiday in honor of the 22 athletes from Kano who tragically lost their lives in an accident while returning from Ogun State.

The announcement was made during the governor’s pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj, where he instructed that the day be set aside for mourning, prayers, and solidarity with the bereaved families.

A statement released late at night by the Governor’s Spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, conveyed the governor’s deep sorrow and commitment to supporting the affected families.

“It is with a profoundly sorrowful heart that I received the heartbreaking news of this unfortunate tragedy that resulted in the deaths of 22 innocent individuals and caused injuries to several others,” the governor said.

“On behalf of the Kano State Government and its people, I extend our sincerest condolences to the families who lost their loved ones. We grieve with you and stand with you in this painful time,” he added.

The state government further urged Muslim clerics and worshippers, both within and beyond the borders of Kano, to offer prayers for the souls of the deceased athletes and for divine strength to their families during this difficult period.