By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
The National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Enugu State Government are intensifying preparations for the 23rd National Sports Festival, tagged “Coal City Games, Enugu 2026,” with a comprehensive inspection of sports facilities and other critical infrastructure scheduled for August 26 and 27, 2026.
The Main Organizing Committee (MOC) delegation is expected to arrive in Enugu on August 25 ahead of the two-day inspection exercise.
The inspection will assess the readiness of competition and training venues, accommodation facilities, transportation and logistics arrangements, supporting infrastructure and other operational requirements critical to the successful hosting of the Games.
According to the NSC, the exercise will also enable the MOC and Local Organizing Committee (LOC) to review the progress of preparations, identify areas requiring attention and agree on measures to ensure that necessary facilities and operational structures are delivered within the stipulated timelines.
The Director General of the National Sports Commission and Chairman of the MOC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, will lead the NSC delegation to Enugu for the inspection.
Meanwhile, the LOC is scheduled to unveil the official logo and mascot of the Coal City Games on August 28, 2026.
The NSC said the inspection forms part of its continued engagement with the Enugu State Government to ensure that preparations for the National Sports Festival remain on course and meet the required standards for hosting Nigeria’s premier multi-sport event.
The Commission expressed confidence that the collaboration between the MOC and LOC would contribute to the successful delivery of the Festival in line with internationally accepted standards and further strengthen Nigeria’s sporting heritage.

