Enugu State receives 2026 National Sports Festival hosting rights award letter

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has officially presented the Letter of Award for hosting the 2026 National Sports Festival (NSF) to the Enugu State Government.

The event, held at the Enugu State Government House on Tuesday, marked a significant milestone in preparations for the nation’s premier sporting event.

The Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, led the delegation and praised the administration of Governor Peter Mbah for its commitment to collaborating with the NSC to deliver an exceptional festival.

During the presentation, discussions revolved around infrastructure development, logistics arrangements, and the festival’s anticipated economic and social impact on Enugu State.

Hon. Olopade emphasized the importance of meeting baseline requirements, including modern sporting facilities, effective logistics, and fostering unity and sportsmanship among participants and spectators.

“The National Sports Festival is more than a competition; it’s a platform for fostering unity, showcasing talent, and driving development,” he said. “For the first time in history, we are announcing the next host before the commencement of the current festival. This proactive approach gives Enugu ample time to prepare and set a new standard for excellence in hosting.”

Governor Peter Mbah expressed his gratitude to the NSC for entrusting Enugu State with the prestigious event.

“This is a proud moment for the people of Enugu State,” the Governor said. “Our rich sporting history, dating back to the pre-independence era, positions us as a hub for sports excellence. We are fully prepared to host the National Sports Festival and have already initiated projects to ensure our facilities meet global standards.”

He added that the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium and other key venues are undergoing upgrades to deliver a memorable experience for athletes and spectators.

The NSC reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with the Enugu State Government to create a spectacular festival that aligns with Nigeria’s vision of using sports as a tool for development and unity.

The 2026 National Sports Festival marks the first time in 28 years that the event will return to the Coal City.