Enugu declares readiness to host 2026 National Sports Festival as 'Odumeze' mascot unveiled
The National Sports Commission (NSC) Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, has expressed confidence in Enugu State’s preparedness to host the 2026 National Sports Festival scheduled for November.
Olopade made the declaration after inspecting key sporting facilities across the state, as preparations gather momentum for the multi-sport event.
Speaking at the official unveiling of the Games’ mascot at the Enugu State International Conference Centre on Friday, the NSC boss described the launch of ‘Odumeze’ as a significant step towards creating awareness and excitement ahead of the Festival.
He stressed the importance of activities that would help connect the Games with Nigerians and residents of Enugu State.
“I am excited for games of this nature. We need this activation for the Games to resonate all over the country and to also resonate all over Enugu State,” Olopade said.
He added that he was impressed by the simplicity and impact of the unveiling ceremony, saying, “I am very proud to be associated with ‘Odumeze’.”
The NSC DG also commended the Enugu State Government, the Local Organising Committee (LOC) and the Main Organising Committee (MOC) for the progress made so far.
He assured stakeholders that the NSC would continue to collaborate with the state and other partners to ensure a successful and memorable National Sports Festival.
The mascot was formally unveiled by Enugu State Deputy Governor, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai, who represented Governor Peter Mbah at the ceremony.
According to Ossai, ‘Odumeze’ symbolises boldness, strength and power, qualities he said embody both the spirit of the National Sports Festival and the identity of the people of Enugu State.
The Deputy Governor reaffirmed the state’s readiness to welcome athletes, officials and other participants from across Nigeria.
“Enugu and its people are ready to host the festival,” Ossai declared, reiterating the state government’s commitment to delivering a world-class event.
Also speaking, the Enugu State Commissioner for Sports, Barr. Lloyd Ike Ekweremadu, thanked dignitaries, partners and stakeholders for their support towards the preparations.
Ekweremadu said Governor Peter Mbah had demonstrated strong commitment to ensuring that the state delivers a memorable edition of the National Sports Festival.
“The Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has been working seriously to ensure that Enugu State hosts a very memorable Festival,” he said.
He added that Enugu had studied lessons from previous editions and was incorporating them into its preparations, with particular attention to sporting facilities, athlete welfare, security, accommodation, transportation and hospitality.
The 2026 National Sports Festival is expected to feature athletes from Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory competing across numerous sporting disciplines.
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