The National Sports Commission has announced that Enugu State will host the 23rd edition of the National Sports Festival in 2026. This decision was made after a competitive bidding process, and the state is committed to delivering a world-class event.
The National Sports Festival is a biennial multi-sports event that brings together thousands of athletes from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to celebrate sportsmanship, national unity, and sporting excellence.
Before Enugu State takes center stage, the 22nd edition of the festival will be held in January 2025 in Ogun State. The Games will host over 15,000 athletes, and the National Sports Commission has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Ogun State in delivering a premium tournament.
The early selection of Enugu State for the 23rd edition of the Games is in line with international best practices. According to Bukola Olopade, the Director-General of the National Sports Commission, “With Enugu’s selection for the 23rd edition, the festival promises to uphold its legacy of excellence, inclusivity, and showcasing the best of Nigerian sports talent”.
This will be the first time Enugu State will host the National Sports Festival since its inception in 1973. The early announcement of Enugu as the host state will give it enough time to prepare adequately for the Games and enhance the corporate image of the Festival.
