Enugu State has been announced as the host of the 23rd edition of the National Sports Festival, marking the first time the South-Eastern state will stage the prestigious event since the festival’s inception in 1973.
The Coal City State emerged as the winner from a competitive bidding process following a National Sports Commission top management meeting. With this selection, Enugu is poised to deliver a world-class event that upholds the festival’s legacy of excellence, inclusivity, and the discovery of future Nigerian sports stars.
The National Sports Festival, a biennial multi-sports event, brings together thousands of athletes from Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to celebrate sportsmanship, national unity, and athletic prowess.
Before Enugu steps into the spotlight, Ogun State will host the 22nd edition of the festival in January 2025. Dubbed the Gateway Games, the event promises a grand spectacle, with over 15,000 athletes set to participate.
Honourable Bukola Olopade, former chairman of the Local Organising Committee and current NSC Director-General, reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to supporting Ogun State in delivering a premium tournament.
The 21st edition of the Games was held in Asaba, Delta State, where over 11,000 athletes competed. For the first time in the festival’s history, the host for the subsequent edition—Enugu State—has been announced before the conclusion of the current festival.
This development is expected to enhance the corporate image of the event and provide Enugu State with ample time for adequate preparations, ensuring the successful delivery of the 23rd National Sports Festival.
The festival remains a cornerstone of Nigerian sports development, fostering unity and showcasing talents capable of representing the nation on the global stage.