Enugu's Coal City Games 2026 to Kick Off November 27

The Games Village for the 23rd National Sports Festival, known as the Coal City Games 2026, is set to open on November 25 and 26, 2026, prior to the official commencement of the festival in Enugu state. Bamiduro Olumide, Secretary-General of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), announced that the opening ceremony will occur on November 27, 2026, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, marking the festival's formal start.

The event will continue until December 11, with the Games Village closing on December 12, 2026. Enugu state is enhancing its organizational efforts, having established specialized sub-committees to manage various aspects of the festival, including accommodation, security, and media.

Hon. Lloyd Ike Ekweremadu Jr. leads the LOC, overseeing the Games Village Management and Catering committees, while Mary Onyali is appointed chairperson of the Volunteers Sub-Committee. The National Sports Commission confirmed the festival dates after discussions with the Enugu State Government.