The Kano State government has declared today a public holiday to mourn the death of 22 athletes who lost their lives in a tragic auto crash on Saturday.

The athletes were killed near Kuri, about 50 kilometres from Kano while returning from Abeokuta, Ogun State, where they had represented Kano at the 22nd National Sports Festival.

In a statement signed by the Director-General of Media and Publicity, Sanusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf expressed profound sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims.

“On behalf of the government and the good people of Kano State, we wish to extend our heartfelt condolences over the unfortunate incident that occurred to the brave Kano team members on their way back home along the Kano–Zaria expressway,” said the statement.

The governor described the incident as a dark moment for the state, saying, “It is with a deeply saddened heart that I received the tragic news of the unfortunate incident which claimed the lives of 22 innocent citizens and left several others injured.”

He added, “On behalf of the government and the good people of Kano State, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. We mourn with you and share in your grief.”

Governor Yusuf also approved today as a public holiday to sympathise with the victims’ families and called for calm and unity during this challenging time.

He assured that all necessary efforts were being made to support the families and survivors.

Former Super Eagles coach, Sunday Oliseh, has landed a new role with the International Football Association Board, IFAB.

IFAB is the global guardian of football’s laws, responsible for determining the laws of football, shaping the beautiful game for players and fans worldwide.

Oliseh confirmed this appointment via his official X account on Monday.

He wrote: “Thrilled to announce my appointment to the International Football Association Board (IFAB)!

“Honored to contribute to its mission!”Oliseh’s appointment to the IFAB board will see the former Dortmund and Juventus midfielder work with some of football’s most influential figures, including legendary Arsenal boss, Arsène Wenger.

The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, says that the Commission is developing a national calendar that will set November and December as the fixed months for hosting the festival.

Dikko disclosed this during a World Media Chat held at the Local Organizing Committee Secretariat, yesterday.

He commended Ogun State for its outstanding hosting of the ongoing National Sports Festival, describing it as a game-changer for sports development in Nigeria.

He called on other states aspiring to host future editions to emulate and improve on the standard set by Ogun.

Dikko noted that the entire country is taking note of the impressive organization and swift handling of challenges during the festival.

“This festival is a major improvement from previous editions.

“It is normal to experience hitches in events of this magnitude, but the prompt resolution of those issues shows great commitment. This edition will serve as a benchmark for future games.”Dikko emphasized.

He added that the Commission, in line with the President’s directive, is working to transform sports into a key economic driver.

“We are building a sports economy—beyond the games, we are looking at job creation, the value chain, and revenue generation.

Ogun’s example is now motivating other states to step forward and host,” he explained.