Enugu State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Lloyd Ikechukwu Ekweremadu, has received the official flag for the 23rd edition of the National Sports Festival (NSF), at the closing ceremony of the Gateway Games, Ogun 2024.
The symbolic handover ceremony of the flag marked the beginning of Enugu’s journey to host the Coal City 2026 National Sports Festival, which, Ekweremadu said, would be a celebration of “unity, excellence and the vibrancy of our culture.”
“On behalf of the members of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) and the dedicated staff of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, we pledge our full commitment to deliver a National Sports Festival that will uphold and surpass the standards set by previous editions.
“As I said, during a press conference, the deliberate investments in infrastructure and top-tier security by Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, set the stage for a safe, memorable and globally admired event. Enugu 2026 is more than sports. It will be an experience – an opportunity for visitors and athletes from across Nigeria to engage with the rich beauty and heritage of our state.
“From the breathtaking Awhum waterfalls to the historic Nsude pyramids and the serene Ngwo Forest Reserve, to the vibrant Awgu Games Village. Enugu offers more than just a competition.
“Preparations are well underway, existing facilities are being upgraded, and new ones are being developed – all aimed at creating an environment where excellence can thrive. Enugu 2026 will be a platform for unity, for talent, and for building memories that will endure. We are ready”, he said.
