The National Sports Commission has officially designated Enugu State as the host for the 23rd edition of the National Sports Festival in 2026.
NSC Director-General Bukola Olopade made this announcement in a statement issued on Friday in Abuja. He revealed that this decision was reached following a management meeting at the NSC.
Enugu State emerged as the host after a competitive bidding process and is poised to deliver a world-class event.
The National Sports Festival, a biennial multi-sport competition, brings together thousands of athletes from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, celebrating sportsmanship, national unity, and athletic excellence.
Before Enugu takes the spotlight, the 22nd edition of the festival is scheduled for January 2025 in Ogun State, which is also set to host a premier event.
Olopade, who previously chaired the Local Organising Committee for the Ogun 2025 NSF, announced that over 15,000 athletes are expected to participate in the Games. He reaffirmed the NSC’s commitment to supporting Ogun in delivering a top-tier tournament.
He stated that the early selection of Enugu for the 23rd edition aligns with international best practices. “With Enugu chosen as the host, the festival is set to continue its tradition of excellence, inclusivity, and showcasing Nigeria’s sporting talent.”
This will be the first time the South-Eastern State hosts the event since its inception in 1973. Olopade emphasized that announcing Enugu as the host well in advance would allow sufficient time for preparations and enhance the festival’s corporate image.
According to NAN, the 21st edition of the Games was held in Asaba, Delta State, where over 11,000 athletes took part in the tournament.
