The National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced Enugu State as the host of the 23rd edition of the National Sports Festival. The Coal City State emerged victorious after a competitive bidding process and is poised to deliver a world-class event.
The National Sports Festival, a biennial multi-sport event, brings together thousands of athletes from Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to celebrate sportsmanship, unity, and excellence.
Before Enugu takes center stage, the 22nd edition of the festival, dubbed the Gateway Games 2024, will be held in Ogun State in January 2025. Excitement is building as the Gateway State prepares to host over 15,000 athletes in what promises to be a spectacular event.
Bukola Olopade, former chairman of the Local Organizing Committee and current NSC Director General, reaffirmed the NSC’s commitment to supporting Ogun State in delivering a premium tournament. He expressed confidence in Ogun’s ability to uphold the festival’s legacy of excellence.
Enugu’s selection as the host for the 23rd edition marks a historic first for the South-Eastern state, which has never hosted the event since its inception in 1973.
The NSC believes the early announcement of Enugu’s hosting rights will provide ample time for preparation and enhance the festival’s corporate image.
The previous edition of the games, hosted in Asaba, Delta State, saw over 11,000 athletes compete in a grand showcase of talent.
As Ogun State prepares to host the next edition, and Enugu gears up for its turn, the festival continues its mission of discovering and nurturing talents capable of representing Nigeria on the global stage.
