The Handball Federation of Nigeria (HFN), under the leadership of its President, Mr. Samuel Ocheho, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of members of the Kano State contingent who were returning from the just-concluded National Sports Festival in Ogun State.
According to reports from the Federal Road Safety Corps, a fatal crash involving buses belonging to the Kano State Sports Commission occurred on Saturday along the Kano-Kaduna highway. The devastating accident claimed 22 lives, including athletes, journalists, and sports officials. Several others sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical attention.
Mr. Ocheho, visibly shaken by the news, extended his deepest condolences to the Government of Kano State, the Kano State Sports Commission, and the bereaved families. He said, “This is an immeasurable loss not only to the families and the state but to the entire Nigerian sports community. Those that lost their lives embodied the spirit of dedication and unity that we seek to promote.”
He added, “On behalf of the Handball Federation of Nigeria, I offer our heartfelt sympathies. May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may their families find strength during this difficult time.”
Also speaking, Mr. Jibril Saidu Ojih, an executive member of the HFN representing the North-Central Zone and the Secretary General of the Commonwealth Handball Association, expressed his deep sorrow. He described the incident as a painful reminder of the dangers athletes and sports officials face in the course of duty.
“Our thoughts are with the people of Kano State and especially the families directly affected. We pray for a full recovery for those injured and for comfort to those who have lost their loved ones,” Mr. Ojih stated.
