"A Black Day for Nigerian Sports" – Kanu Nwankwo Mourns Kano Athletes

Enyimba Football Club Chairman, Ambassador Kanu Nwankwo, has expressed deep sorrow following the tragic death of over twenty Kano State athletes and officials in a fatal road accident after the Gateway Games 2024 (National Sports Festival).

In a statement released through Enyimba Media, the football legend described the incident as “a dark and irreparable tragedy that has left the entire Nigerian sports community in deep mourning.”

“We are devastated by the heartbreaking loss of young, vibrant talents and dedicated officials whose only crime was committing themselves to serve their state and country through sports,” Kanu stated. “This is not just Kano’s loss; it is Nigeria’s loss.”

Speaking on behalf of the club’s management, staff, and players, Kanu extended condolences to the Kano State Government, Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, National Sports Commission, and the affected families.

He emphasized the need for collective solidarity in the Nigerian sports community and called for a renewed focus on athlete safety.

“This painful episode is a solemn reminder of the dangers our athletes and officials face while representing us with passion and pride. We at Enyimba FC stand in full support of the Kano State sports fraternity and pray for strength and healing in these trying times.”

Kanu also urged authorities to prioritize the safety of sports contingents, describing the victims as “symbols of hope whose light will never be forgotten.”

Enyimba FC joins millions of Nigerians in mourning the lives lost and in seeking stronger safety measures to protect the nation’s sports heroes.