The 23rd National Sports Festival, tagged “COAL CITY Games 2026,” is set to be a landmark event for Enugu State, with the state aiming not only to host a successful festival but also to emerge as the overall champions. Lloyd Ekweremadu, the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) and Enugu State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, expressed unwavering confidence in the state’s ability to achieve this ambitious goal. Ekweremadu emphasized Governor Peter Mbah’s commitment to ensuring Enugu State hosts and wins the games, a vision that has spurred a comprehensive recruitment drive for athletes. This initiative involves reaching out to Enugu State indigenes competing for other states, as well as elite athletes both within Nigeria and abroad, with the aim of assembling a formidable contingent for the games. The commitment extends beyond just assembling a team; it encompasses a strategic approach to infrastructure development, with plans to revamp existing facilities and construct new ones.
The revitalization of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium stands as a central pillar of this infrastructure plan. The stadium, a symbolic sporting landmark in Enugu State, is slated for a comprehensive overhaul that promises to transform it into a state-of-the-art facility. Governor Mbah envisions a dramatic transformation, one that will render the stadium virtually unrecognizable from its current state. This renovation underscores the state’s dedication to providing a world-class sporting venue befitting the National Sports Festival. Furthermore, the Awgu Games Village, currently an undeveloped expanse of land, is earmarked for the construction of a brand new, multi-purpose games village. This ambitious project signifies the state’s commitment to creating a dedicated sporting hub that can accommodate the diverse needs of athletes and officials during the games.
The LOC, under Ekweremadu’s leadership, is entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring the successful execution of these plans. The committee’s composition reflects a blend of experience and expertise, with members drawn from various fields related to sports management and infrastructure development. This diverse team is tasked with overseeing all aspects of the games, from athlete recruitment and facility development to logistics and security. Ekweremadu’s confidence in the committee’s ability to deliver stems from the unwavering support of Governor Mbah, who has demonstrated a clear understanding of the steps necessary to host a winning games. The governor’s backing provides the LOC with the necessary impetus to navigate the challenges and complexities associated with organizing a multi-sports event of this magnitude.
Davidson Owumi, Chief Operating Officer of the Nigeria Premier Football League and a member of the LOC, echoes Ekweremadu’s optimism. Owumi believes Enugu State possesses the capacity to host a successful National Sports Festival, citing the governor’s track record and the technical expertise within the LOC as key factors. He emphasizes the importance of the committee’s technical proficiency in effectively addressing the logistical and operational challenges inherent in hosting a large-scale sporting event. Owumi’s assessment reflects a shared belief in the state’s potential and underscores the collective effort required to realize the ambitious goal of hosting and winning the COAL CITY Games. The combined experience and commitment of the LOC members, coupled with the governor’s unwavering support, create a strong foundation for success.
The preparations for the COAL CITY Games are not merely about constructing facilities and assembling a team; they represent a broader vision for the development of sports in Enugu State. The games are viewed as a catalyst for promoting sporting excellence and nurturing young talent within the state. By investing in infrastructure and providing opportunities for athletes to compete at the highest level, Enugu State aims to create a sustainable sporting ecosystem that will benefit generations to come. The legacy of the games will extend beyond the sporting arena, contributing to the overall development of the state and fostering a sense of pride and unity among its citizens.
The COAL CITY Games 2026 represent more than just a sporting event; they symbolize Enugu State’s ambition and determination to establish itself as a prominent force in Nigerian sports. The state’s commitment to hosting and winning the games reflects a broader vision of promoting sporting excellence and creating a lasting legacy for future generations. The combined efforts of the LOC, the unwavering support of Governor Mbah, and the enthusiasm of the people of Enugu State create a powerful synergy that promises to make the COAL CITY Games a resounding success. The games will not only showcase the state’s sporting prowess but also its ability to host a world-class event, leaving a lasting impact on the sporting landscape of Nigeria.
