Enugu State to Host 23rd National Sports Festival as NSC DG, Hon. Olopade Holds Productive Meeting with Governor Peter Mbah
... LOC set for inauguration on Wednesday
Oru Leonard
Enugu State is gearing up to host the 23rd National Sports Festival in 2026, following a successful bidding process. The National Sports Commission (NSC), Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, held a productive meeting with Governor Peter Mbah to discuss preparations for the event.
Governor Mbah has approved the composition of the LOC, which will be inaugurated on Wednesday. The committee comprises seasoned professionals in sports administration, youth development, and executive planning.
The festival is expected to draw thousands of athletes, coaches, officials, and spectators from across Nigeria, promoting national unity and athletic excellence.
Speaking in his remarks, NSC DG’s Hon. Olopade emphasized that the National Sports Festival is a legacy project that transforms host cities, praising Enugu State’s readiness and political will to deliver a successful event.
“We’re confident in their ability to deliver”, the NSC DG stressed.
Recall that Enugu State won the hosting rights for the 23rd edition of the festival after a highly competitive bidding process. The event is scheduled for 2026 and is expected to draw over thousands of athletes, coaches, officials, and spectators from across the country.
Building on the successes of Gateway Games 2024, Enugu State is poised to raise the bar even higher. Committing itself to early planning, the State Government has promised to lay the groundwork for a landmark edition of the National Sports Festival—one that will celebrate athletic excellence, foster national unity, and leave a lasting legacy for the future of Nigerian sports.
The event aims to celebrate athletic excellence, foster national unity, and leave a lasting legacy for Nigerian sports.
According to a statement signed by Kola Daniel, S.A, Media, Office of the Director General, National Sports Commission on June 17, 2025, Enugu State has commenced early planning to ensure a seamless and impactful festival experience as the state is committed to delivering a world-class event that showcases Nigeria’s athletic talents and promotes youth engagement.
The 23rd National Sports Festival is scheduled to take place in 2026, with Ogun State hosting the 22nd edition in January 2025.
