Enugu 2026: Tinubu to open 23rd National Sports Festival

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to declare the 23rd National Sports Festival, tagged Coal City Games Enugu 2026, open on November 28, as the National Sports Commission (NSC) expresses confidence in Enugu State‘s readiness to host the competition.

The NSC Director-General, Bukola Olopade, confirmed the development on October 29 following a joint technical meeting involving Directors of Sports from the 36 states, members of the Main Organising Committee (MOC), the Local Organising Committee (LOC) and officials of national sports federations.

The meeting, held in Enugu after an inspection of designated venues and facilities, reviewed preparations and addressed outstanding concerns ahead of the national sporting event.

Olopade said the President’s expected attendance at the opening ceremony reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to sports development, national unity, youth empowerment and economic growth.

He also confirmed that state contingents are expected to begin arriving in Enugu on November 26, two days before the opening ceremony.

NSC confirms readiness for Enugu 2026

Speaking after the meeting, Olopade described the technical sessions as productive, noting that critical issues surrounding the organisation of the Games had been addressed.

He maintained that the November 28 opening date remained unchanged, expressing confidence in Enugu State’s preparations to host athletes and officials from across the country.

“This is a profound National Sports Festival for me. For so many reasons. What we have seen in Enugu gives us confidence. The people of Enugu are enthusiastic and eagerly waiting to welcome all of us to this wonderful, great city,” Olopade said.

The NSC Director-General also described Enugu as a secure destination for the competition, urging Nigerians to disregard negative narratives surrounding the state’s capacity to host major sporting events.

Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium undergoes renovation

On infrastructure, Olopade disclosed that concerns raised during earlier assessments had been addressed following engagements with contractors handling the renovation of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium and other sporting venues.

He assured that the stadium would undergo significant renovation and branding ahead of the competition.

“You will not recognise the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium as you used to know it,” he said.

The Director-General further revealed that the swimming pool was expected to be ready for use by November 18.

According to him, the Federal Government-funded renovation project commenced approximately four to five weeks ago, with contractors now fully mobilised to complete the work.

He also confirmed that funds were ready for release to the MOC and LOC, while sporting equipment that had previously raised concerns had been procured and would be deployed ahead of the competition.

Enugu government assures stakeholders

Olopade commended Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, and the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Lloyd Ekweremadu, for their commitment and efforts towards delivering a successful festival.

In his remarks, Ekweremadu welcomed the NSC delegation, Directors of Sports, technical directors and secretaries of sports federations to the state.

He appreciated the technical teams for their attention to detail during the inspection exercise and assured stakeholders that observations raised would be addressed before the opening ceremony.

Earlier, the MOC Secretary and NSC Director of Festival and Para-Sports, Thecla Opara, highlighted areas requiring attention following the inspection.

She urged the Enugu State Government to implement the necessary corrections to ensure that all facilities meet the required standards.

Similarly, the LOC Secretary, Bamiduro Olumide, assured stakeholders that the observations would be considered and addressed as preparations continue.

12,000 athletes and officials expected

The 23rd National Sports Festival is expected to attract approximately 12,000 athletes and officials representing states across the federation.

The multi-sport competition will provide a national platform for athletes to showcase their abilities, compete for honours and contribute to the development of Nigerian sports.

With preparations gathering pace, Enugu 2026 is expected to bring together athletes and sports officials from across the country for one of Nigeria‘s biggest sporting events.

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