Niger State Seeks N63m for 2026 Sports Festival

The Niger State Sports Commission announced that it needs at least N63 million to participate in the upcoming National Sports Festival scheduled for later this year in Enugu. This funding will support athlete preparation, purchase of sports equipment, and cover allowances for participants and officials.

Chairman of the Niger State Sports Commission, Danjuma Abdul Masu, stated that requests for these funds have been submitted to the state government to ensure timely preparation. The state plans to send a contingent of 215 athletes and officials, competing in various sports including athletics, judo, handball, football, darts, badminton, and boxing.

Masu expressed optimism about winning at least 10 gold medals, citing the strong national performances of Niger's athletes. He emphasized that this target is based on strategic investment and preparation, rather than mere ambition, and noted the establishment of new associations for shooting and darts to broaden the state's medal prospects.