Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Yusuf, has renamed the Kano State Sports Institute after the 22 Kano athletes who lost their lives in a road accident while returning from the National Sports Festival in May 2025.

During a ceremony held at the Government House in Kano, Governor Yusuf announced that the Kano State Sports Institute will now be known as the Kano State 22 Athletes Sports Institute.

Additionally, the Kano State Sports Commission will bear the name, Kano State 22 Athletes Sports Commission,’ in honour of the late sportsmen and women.

“These young heroes made Kano proud. They should be remembered forever. Their commitment and sacrifice to the state will not be forgotten,” the governor said.

The announcement was made during a courtesy visit by representatives of the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mrs. Remi Tinubu, who donated N110 million to the bereaved families.

Yusuf thanked the Mrs Tinubu for the donation to the family, whom he said were going through unimaginable grief.

“We are grateful to Her Excellency, the First Lady, for this generous support. These families are going through unimaginable grief, and this act of kindness provides not only relief but also recognition,” the Governor added.

He further pledged continued government support for the families of the deceased.

“The education of their children will be fully sponsored by the state, and their wives will be included in our government’s empowerment programmes. For those without wives, we will ensure their parents are not left out of this support drive,” he assured.

The accident, whichh occurred just five kilometres away from Kano, shocked the nation and plunged the sports community into mourning.

The athletes were returning home after representing Kano at the National Sports Festival, where they had reportedly delivered outstanding performances.

In a statement signed by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mustapha Muhammad, the governor reiterated that the fallen athletes are “heroes who fought for the successes of Kano” and deserve to be immortalised for their patriotism and excellence.

The renaming of the two key sports institutions is expected to stand as a permanent symbol of honour, reminding future generations of the sacrifices made by those who wore the state’s colours with pride. (Channels TV)