In a show of solidarity and demonstration of compassion, a high-powered delegation led by sports entrepreneur and Chief Executive Officer of Green White Green Sports Centre Limited, Hon. Ahmed Shuaibu Gara-Gombe, yesterday paid a condolence visit to the Kano State Government and families of the victims of a tragic road accident that claimed the lives of 22 young athletes.
The delegation, which included renowned figures such as Dr. Alex Mana and retired military officer Col. Abbas Mohammed, was received by the Director of the Kano State Sports Commission, Mr. Ibrahim Umar Fagge, and later by the Deputy Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo, at the Government House in Kano.
The athletes, who represented Kano State at the recent National Sports Festival, tagged “Gateway Games,” in Ogun State, lost their lives in a devastating auto crash on their way back from the event. The tragic incident sent shockwaves across Nigeria’s sports community, sparking grief and calls for lasting memorials in their honour.
Speaking during the visit, Hon. Gara-Gombe, a former Special Adviser to ex-Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and a prominent figure in Nigerian sports development, expressed deep sorrow over the incident. He described the deceased as “national assets” whose contributions to grassroots sports would not be forgotten.
“As someone who has lived in Kano and served the state at different levels, I feel personally affected by this tragedy,” Gara-Gombe stated. “These young athletes gave their lives in the service of the state and the country. They deserve to be honoured eternally.”
He called on the Kano State Government to construct a mausoleum in Kano metropolis as a permanent memorial for the fallen athletes. He said such a structure would not only preserve their legacy but also serve as a reminder of the value of youth in nation-building.
In a further show of commitment, Hon. Gara-Gombe announced a personal donation of N2 million to support the mausoleum project, urging others within the sports and political community to contribute as well.
Responding on behalf of the state government, Deputy Governor Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo expressed appreciation for the visit and described it as a powerful gesture of empathy and unity from the people of Gombe State.
“We are grateful to Hon. Gara-Gombe and his team for standing with us in this difficult time,” Gwarzo said. “Your proposal to immortalize our heroes is noble, and the government will give it due consideration.”
The Deputy Governor also thanked the delegation for their thoughtful donation and assured them that the government remains committed to supporting the families of the victims.
The visit was concluded with prayers for the souls of the departed and for peace and progress in Kano State and Nigeria at large.