President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to declare open the 23rd National Sports Festival, tagged Coal City Games Enugu 2026, on November 28.
Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, announced the development following a technical meeting and inspection of sporting facilities in Enugu.
Olopade said the President’s planned attendance reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to sports development, youth empowerment and national unity.
The festival is expected to attract approximately 12,000 athletes and officials from Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
NSC Confirms November 28 Opening Ceremony
Speaking after the joint technical meeting, Olopade confirmed that participating contingents would begin arriving in Enugu on November 26.
He maintained that the November 28 opening ceremony would proceed as scheduled.
The meeting brought together representatives of the Main Organising Committee, Local Organising Committee, national sports federations and state sports administrators.
Officials reviewed preparations, inspected facilities and discussed outstanding arrangements ahead of the competition.
Olopade expressed confidence that Enugu would deliver a successful festival.
Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium Undergoes Major Renovation
The NSC Director-General said concerns about sporting facilities had been addressed following discussions with contractors handling renovation projects.
He explained that the ongoing upgrade of Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium would significantly improve the venue’s appearance and facilities.
The work includes renovations and branding intended to prepare the stadium for the national competition.
Olopade also disclosed that the swimming pool was expected to be ready by November 18, ahead of the opening ceremony.
The Commission said contractors had intensified work to ensure the facilities meet the requirements for hosting the festival.
NSC Addresses Funding and Equipment Concerns
Olopade confirmed that funding arrangements had been concluded for the Main and Local Organising Committees.
He said the necessary funds would be released to support the remaining preparations.
The NSC also announced that concerns about sporting equipment had been resolved.
According to the Commission, the required equipment has been procured and will be deployed to designated venues.
The development is expected to support competition readiness across the sporting disciplines.
Enugu Government Assures Athletes of Readiness
Olopade commended Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah and Commissioner for Youth and Sports Lloyd Ekweremadu for their commitment to hosting the festival.
He praised the state government’s investment in sporting infrastructure and efforts to address logistical challenges.
Ekweremadu welcomed the NSC delegation and representatives of sports federations during the technical meeting.
He assured participants that observations from the facility inspections would receive attention before the opening ceremony.
The Secretary of the Main Organising Committee, Thecla Opara, and her Local Organising Committee counterpart, Bamiduro Olumide, also expressed confidence in the preparations.
About 12,000 Athletes and Officials Expected
The Coal City Games Enugu 2026 is expected to bring together approximately 12,000 athletes and officials from across Nigeria.
The festival provides a platform for athletes to compete, represent their states and demonstrate their abilities in different sporting disciplines.
Beyond competition, organisers expect the event to promote national unity, youth participation and economic activity in the host state.
The NSC said it would continue working with the Enugu State Government, sports federations and other stakeholders to complete preparations and deliver a successful festival.
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