The National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced strict and mandatory enforcement of safety measures to safeguard the lives of athletes and officials in future sports festival or engagements.
The latest move followed the tragic loss of 22 athletes from Kano State in an auto accident while returning from the recently concluded 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged ‘Gateway Games 2024’, hosted by Ogun State.
By the new arrangement, the NSC has given a mandate that all participating contingents obtain comprehensive insurance coverage, while all vehicles used for official transport during the Sports Festival must be mechanically certified and fully insured.
In a statement issued by the director of press, Dr (Mrs) Kehinde Ajayi, the commission noted that the this requirement has been communicated to all participating states and will be strictly enforced henceforth.
According to Ajayi, the sports regulatory body has announced plans to convene a post-Games safety roundtable with all State Sports Commissions ostensibly to review travel protocols and exchange safety best practices.
The statement indicated that a compliance audit will take place ahead of future festivals to ensure all contingents adhere to essential safety, insurance, and welfare standards while stronger monitoring mechanisms will also be implemented during national events to prevent further tragedies.
The NSC said it has begun communication with the Kano State government and will maintain a close partnership with them in response to this unfortunate incident.
“This incident must not be in vain.
It must inspire all levels of government—federal and state authorities alike—to enhance the systems that protect those who dedicate their strength and spirit to represent our nation in sports. While the transportation arrangements for state contingents are the responsibility of individual state sports councils, this incident highlights the urgent need for a coordinated national framework for safety and welfare.”
