Enugu Prepares for 2026 National Sports Festival Opening

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, in Enugu state. The Secretary-General of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), Bamiduro Olumide, announced that the official opening ceremony will occur on November 27, 2026, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, marking the festival's commencement.

The event will last until December 11, with the Games Village closing on December 12, providing a two-day period for athletes and officials from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to settle in. The LOC has established specialized sub-committees to manage various aspects of the festival, including accommodation, security, and athletes' welfare.

Hon. Lloyd Ike Ekweremadu Jr. will oversee the Games Village Management and Catering committees, while Mary Onyali will chair the Volunteers Sub-Committee. The National Sports Commission confirmed the festival dates following discussions with the Enugu State Government.