The National Sports Commission (NSC) has officially announced Enugu State as the host for the 23rd edition of the National Sports Festival (NSF) in 2026. The decision was revealed by the NSC Director-General, Bukola Olopade, in a statement on Friday, November 22 in Abuja.
Olopade explained that the selection of Enugu followed a competitive bidding process, with the state emerging as the top contender. He expressed confidence that Enugu will deliver a world-class event, building on the legacy of previous festivals.
The National Sports Festival is a biennial multi-sports event that brings together athletes from across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to celebrate sportsmanship, national unity, and sporting excellence.
Before Enugu takes the spotlight in 2026, the 22nd edition of the NSF is scheduled to be held in January 2025 in Ogun State. Olopade, a former chairman of the Local Organizing Committee for the Ogun 2025 NSF, highlighted that over 15,000 athletes are expected to compete in the upcoming event, with Ogun State committed to delivering a top-tier tournament.
The announcement of Enugu as the host for the 23rd edition aligns with international best practices, according to Olopade. He emphasized that this marks the first time the southeastern state will host the event since the festival’s inception in 1973.
The NSC’s early selection of Enugu is designed to give the state ample time to prepare for the event, while also enhancing the corporate image of the National Sports Festival. The 21st edition of the Games, held in Asaba, Delta, saw over 11,000 athletes participating.
With the 23rd NSF set to take place in Enugu, anticipation is already building as the state prepares to showcase Nigeria’s sporting talent and continue the tradition of excellence that the National Sports Festival represents.
