Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, has reiterated his administration's commitment to delivering a memorable 23rd National Sports Festival (NSF), tagged “Coal City Games.” The festival is scheduled to take place from November 27 to December 11, 2026. Mbah made this statement during a tour of the Awgu Games Village, one of the venues for the NSF. He assessed the quality and speed of work at the site, emphasizing that the abandoned Awgu Games Village would be transformed into a world-standard sports facility within two months.
During the inspection, Mbah highlighted the ongoing construction of various facilities, including a one-thousand-capacity-bed hostel, outdoor and indoor courts, a standard FIFA pitch, and an eight-lane track. These developments are part of his administration's efforts to provide world-class infrastructure for the festival. The governor stressed that his government is working within a tight timeline to ensure the project is completed on schedule. He expressed confidence that the Awgu Games Village would be ready to host contingents from across the country.
Mbah emphasized that his administration's investment in sports infrastructure goes beyond the NSF. He noted that the development of sports facilities aligns with his campaign promise to make Enugu State an attractive destination for investment, business, tourism, and living. The governor highlighted the ongoing upgrade of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium to FIFA-standard, describing sports as a vital tool for social cohesion and a lucrative industry if well harnessed.
The Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium is undergoing a comprehensive reconstruction and transformation. The upgrade includes the installation of a new FIFA-standard football pitch, a new athletics track, and rehabilitation of spectator seats. The stadium's VIP and VVIP stands, players' changing rooms, and other associated facilities are also being upgraded. Additionally, the stadium gates and access-control system are being modernized with an electronic system, and new LCD scoreboards and perimeter LED display boards are being installed.
Mbah assured that his administration is committed to hosting a successful festival. He personally committed to the team from the National Sports Commission that Enugu State would not shift the dates of the festival. The governor emphasized that his government is focused on providing a memorable experience for athletes, officials, and everyone involved in the management of the Games. This includes ensuring their accommodation, logistics, and overall experience are well taken care of.
The governor was accompanied by several key officials during the tour, including the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Barr. Lloyd Ekweremadu, and the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Osita Okoh. Other officials present included the Commissioner for Human Development and Poverty Eradication, Prof. Benedett Okoli, and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Project Development and Implementation, Arch. Uche Nwatu.
With the ongoing developments, Enugu State is poised to host a world-class 23rd National Sports Festival. The governor's commitment to delivering a memorable event has been reaffirmed through the inspection and ongoing construction of facilities. The festival promises to be an exciting experience for athletes and officials from across the country.
Key points
- Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, has assured of a world-class 23rd National Sports Festival.
- The festival is scheduled to take place from November 27 to December 11, 2026.
- The Awgu Games Village is being transformed into a world-standard sports facility within two months.
