With a promise of record-breaking sponsorship and a vibrant atmosphere, the National Sports Commission (NSC) has officially announced that the 2026 National Sports Festival, aptly named the Coal City Games, will take place from November 27 to December 11 in Enugu.
During the inaugural meeting of the Main Organising Committee for the Games in Abuja on Thursday, NSC Director-General Hon. Bukola Olopade shared key details about the event.
Coal City Games Preparation Underway
Olopade outlined that participant states will begin their arrival on November 25 and 26, ahead of the opening ceremony scheduled for November 27. The festival will conclude on December 11, with the Director-General underscoring the importance of adhering to these timelines.
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He highlighted the collaborative efforts with Enugu State’s Governor Barrister Peter Mbah, which played a significant role in finalising the event dates.
Progress on Facilities Exemplary
Olopade praised Governor Mbah for his commitment and enthusiasm towards the timely completion of facilities for the Games, stating, “I must commend the Governor of Enugu State, Barrister Peter Mbah, who has shown tremendous enthusiasm in the pace at which facilities are being built and completed for the Games. This is highly commendable.”
Record Sponsorship Anticipated
The NSC is optimistic that this year’s festival will set a new standard, proclaiming it the best-sponsored event in Nigeria’s sports history. “Let it be on record that the Enugu Games, without any argument, will be the best-sponsored festival in history. The main sponsor, Premium Trust Bank, has fulfilled its commitment, and it is a very historic contribution to the festival,” Olopade asserted.
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He mentioned that the previous record holder, the Gateway Games held last year in Abeokuta, will likely be eclipsed by the upcoming festival, which promises to be even better funded and organized.
Reduced Sports Disciplines to 20
In a move designed to enhance affordability for participating states as part of the RHINSE reform agenda, the number of sports included in the festival has been reduced to 20. Of these, 15 will be compulsory NSC sports, with the remaining five disciplines to be selected by the host state.
Compulsory Sports for Coal City Games
The compulsory sports scheduled to feature at the Coal City Games include Athletics, Para Athletics, Badminton, Para Badminton, Basketball, Wheelchair Basketball, Boxing, Cycling, Football, Judo, Gymnastics, Swimming, Table Tennis, Para Table Tennis, Tennis, Taekwondo, Mixed Martial Arts, Weightlifting, Para Powerlifting, and Wrestling.
By Richard Jideaka, Abuja
