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| Honourable Bukola Olopade, NSC Director General |
…NSC Names Coal City as Venue for 2026 Edition, Ogun State Ready for Gateway Games 2024
The National Sports Commission (NSC) has officially announced Enugu State as the host for the 23rd edition of the National Sports Festival, following a highly competitive bidding process. The decision was unveiled after a top management meeting, marks the first time the South-Eastern state will host the prestigious event since its inception in 1973.
This contained in a statement signed by the Special Assistant on media in the Office of the Director General, NSC, Kola Daniel issued on Friday in Abuja.
Enugu State, also known as the Coal City State, has pledged to deliver a world-class sporting spectacle that celebrates national unity, sportsmanship, and athletic excellence. The festival, held biennially, unites thousands of athletes from Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, showcasing the country’s rich sporting talent.
Before Enugu’s turn to take center stage, the 22nd edition of the festival is scheduled to hold in January 2025 in Ogun State. Dubbed the “Gateway Games 2024,” the event promises grandeur and excitement, with the Gateway State preparing to host over 15,000 athletes.
According to the statement, Honourable Bukola Olopade, NSC Director General and former chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, reaffirmed the NSC’s support for Ogun State, expressing confidence in the state’s ability to deliver an unforgettable tournament.
The announcement of Enugu’s selection as the next host comes as a groundbreaking move, as it is the first time in the festival’s history that the subsequent host is revealed before the current event concludes. This development provides Enugu State ample time to prepare, enhancing the prestige of the festival and fostering better organizational strategies.
Reflecting on the festival’s legacy, the 21st edition, held in Asaba, Delta State, saw over 11,000 athletes compete in a vibrant celebration of sports. Enugu is expected to uphold this tradition while adding its unique flavor to the event.
The National Sports Festival continues to serve as a breeding ground for young talents and a platform to identify athletes who will represent Nigeria on the global stage. With Enugu State’s selection, the festival is poised to maintain its legacy of excellence and inclusivity.
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