Ado Salisu
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to personally declare the 23rd National Sports Festival, tagged Coal City Games Enugu 2026, open on November 28.
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The Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, disclosed this during the Joint Technical Meeting of Directors of Sports from the 36 states, members of the Main Organising Committee (MOC) and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) in Enugu.
He said the President’s planned attendance underscored the importance the present administration attaches to sports development as a tool for national unity, youth empowerment and economic growth.
Olopade, who spoke after the inspection of venues and facilities for the festival, confirmed that the opening date was sacrosanct, assuring stakeholders that Enugu was ready to host the event.
He said contingents were expected to begin arriving on November 26, ahead of the opening ceremony two days later.
The NSC Director-General disclosed that concerns raised about sporting facilities had been addressed, following engagements with contractors handling the renovation and upgrading of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium and other venues.
He assured that the renovation and branding of the stadium would give it a new look, while the swimming pool was expected to be ready for use by November 18.
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Olopade also confirmed that funds were ready for release to the MOC and LOC, adding that sporting equipment which had earlier raised concerns had been procured and would be deployed.
He commended the Enugu State Governor, Dr Peter Mbah, and the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Lloyd Ikechukwu Ekweremadu, for their commitment and efforts towards ensuring a successful festival.
The Director-General described Enugu as a secure sporting destination, urging Nigerians to disregard negative narratives and support the country’s efforts to host major sporting events.
In his remarks, the Enugu State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Lloyd Ikechukwu Ekweremadu, welcomed officials of the National Sports Commission, Directors of Sports, technical directors and secretaries of sports federations to the state.
He assured them that observations made during the inspection would be addressed to ensure that all facilities were in good condition before the opening ceremony.
Earlier, the Secretary of the Main Organising Committee and Director of Festival and Para-Sports at the NSC, Mrs Thecla Opara, highlighted observations from the inspection teams and urged the state government to implement the necessary corrections.
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Similarly, the Secretary of the Local Organising Committee, Mr Bamiduro Olumide, assured stakeholders that all identified concerns would be addressed.
The Coal City Games Enugu 2026 is expected to attract about 12,000 athletes and officials from across the country.