By Chidi Ugwu
Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, has officially approved the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the 23rd National Sports Festival, scheduled to take place in Enugu in 2026.
According to a statement signed by Dan Onwuegbuna, Director, Information Enugu State Ministry of Youth and Sports, the committee, chaired by the Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Lloyd Ike Ekweremadu Jr., comprises seasoned professionals in sports administration, event management, and youth development.
The LOC includes notable members such as Mary Onyali, a former world-class athlete; Davidson Owumi, COO of the Nigeria Professional Football League; and Bamiduro Olumide, a respected sports management expert and former national badminton champion, who will serve as Secretary General.
Other members include Aku Akazu, Victor Okorie, and Jonathan Nnaji, among others, all selected for their expertise and contributions to the sports sector.
Governor Mbah expressed confidence in the committee’s ability to deliver a world-class event, emphasizing Enugu’s commitment to setting new standards of excellence.
Honourable Commissioner Ekweremadu Jr. reiterated the state’s dedication to hosting a festival that promotes athletic excellence, national unity, and economic development.
Preparations are already underway, with further updates expected as the LOC begins its work. Enugu 2026 aims to leave a lasting legacy in Nigeria’s sporting history.
