Ogun State Governor, and chief host of the just concluded Gateway Games, Prince Dapo Abiodun has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic ancident involving members of the Kano State contingent who were returning home after participating in the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival (NSF) held in Ogun State.

A bus conveying the athletes crashed about 50 kilometres from Kano. It had passed through Kaduna State. The crash claimed the lives of 20 athletes.

Abiodun, in a statement issued in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, on Saturday, said the incident had left him completely traumatized.

The athletes were vibrant young people. They were looking forward to a warm reception from their fans and families. The athletes had proudly donned the colours of Kano State at the just-concluded Gateway Games 2024. They had a bright future ahead of them.

Abiodun expressed condolences to the government and people of Kano State over the incident. He prayed for the repose of the souls of the athletes.

He stated that they were heroes whose patriotism and commitment to the cause of Kano State will never be forgotten. Their dedication to Nigeria as a whole will also be forever remembered.

He said: “It is indeed saddening and distressing. Twenty gallant athletes who had represented Kano State at the just concluded Gateway 2024 games have lost their lives. The circumstances are most traumatising and painful.

“This is so painful. These were young people, budding stars who had a lot to give the country with their talents, skills, and creativity.

“In particular, it is tragic that their beloved family members, who were looking forward to receiving them after a memorable outing at the National Sports Festival, will never get to see their beautiful faces again.

“Our prayers and thoughts are with their families and friends at this terrible hour.

“Having represented Kano with pride and distinction and made friends with their compatriots from across the 36 states, the athletes were heading home with joy, only for their lives to be cut short just before setting foot on Kano soil.

“We are deeply saddened by this incident, and we pray that Almighty Allah grants them eternal rest.

“I commiserate with His Excellency, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, and his cabinet, the Chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission, Umar Bala Fagge, and the people of Kano State over this most tragic and unfortunate incident.

“May we never witness this kind of incident again.”

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A trending video on social media platforms has indicated a tragic incident. It reported that 19 athletes of Team Kano have died.

This occurred while they were returning home from the just concluded National Sports Festival in Abeokuta.

It was gathered that the bus conveying the majority of the contingent crashed about 50 kilometres from Kano after passing Kaduna State

It was further gathered that the bus conveying the athletes might have skipped off the Dakatsalle bridge and fell off it.

 The bus was carrying about 30 athletes.

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The 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival, also known as the Gateway Games, has come to a close in Ogun State, marking a proud and historic moment for Nigeria’s sports community.

What began with a colourful and well-attended opening ceremony was brought to a fitting conclusion after days of intense competition, cultural celebration and youth participation.

Vice President Kashim Shettima, who declared the Games open on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, described the event as a celebration of youth, diversity and national pride.

That message remained consistent throughout the festival as Ogun State welcomed over 10,000 athletes, coaches and officials from across the country.

A panoramic view of the glamorous closing ceremony

Governor Dapo Abiodun’s commitment to excellence was evident in the organization and infrastructure that supported the Games.

The quality of the facilities and the smooth coordination of sporting events show that Ogun State delivered what many now describe as the most successful edition in the history of the National Sports Festival.

The Governor was praised for creating an environment that placed youth, sports and national unity at the centre of the conversation, further solidifying his reputation as a leader who supports development through sports and a youth-friendly governor.

Delta State emerged as the overall winner of the Games, finishing with 126 gold medals, 100 Silver medals, and 111 Bronze Medals and topping the medal table.

However, the success of the Gateway Games extended beyond medals. Anambra, Kogi and the invited junior athletes received special recognition for promoting gender balance among their teams, reinforcing the festival’s broader message of inclusion and equal opportunity.

Royalty, pomp and pageantry on display!

Throughout the Games, there were standout performances and moments of resilience that reflected the strength and potential of Nigerian athletes.

The cultural displays, musical showcases, and community engagement also contributed to making the experience a memorable one for participants and spectators alike.

The support of partners and stakeholders played a crucial role in the festival’s success. Their involvement helped ensure a well-rounded event that celebrated both athletic performance and national identity.
As the curtain falls on Gateway Games 2024, it is clear that this edition has raised the bar for future festivals.

Ogun State has not only hosted a national event, but it has also created a lasting impression of what is possible when planning, purpose and people come together.

The legacy of the Gateway Games will live on, reminding everyone that the future of Nigerian sports remains strong and fi lled with promise.

If you want to relive the moments from the games, catch the memories on these handles:
Instagram: @thegatewaygames24
Facebook: Gateway Games
X (Twitter): @gatewaygames_24
YouTube: @GatewayGames-24