The Federal Government (FG) and the Enugu State Government have officially signed a host state agreement for the 2026 National Sports Festival, which will take place in Enugu State. 

The agreement was signed on Tuesday by the Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, on behalf of the FG, and Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State. This formalized Enugu’s hosting rights for the 23rd edition of the festival. 

The signing ceremony was held at the Enugu Government House.

Governor Peter Mbah expressed gratitude to the National Sports Commission and other stakeholders for entrusting the state with the prestigious event.

He assured the public that Enugu would deliver a remarkable and unforgettable experience for athletes and sports enthusiasts nationwide. We deeply appreciate the trust placed in us and the significance of this award,” said Governor Mbah.

“I commend the commission for deeming Enugu deserving of hosting the 23rd National Sports Festival.

We are committed to discharging our responsibilities effectively and upholding the legacy of our forebears.We have already hit the ground running.

Following the announcement, we mobilized our team to begin work on revamping the Awgu Games Village and other facilities. Our plan includes delivering a brand-new Games Village and completely renovating the stadium to meet modern standards. 

“By the end of this year, we are confident visitors will be highly impressed. Beyond renovations, we are building additional facilities to ensure a world-class experience for athletes and spectators, leaving a lasting legacy in the sports world,” he added. 

Hon. Olopade, in his address, praised Enugu’s compelling bid, the state’s existing infrastructure, improved security, and Governor Mbah’s commitment to enhancing sports and social amenities.

These factors, he said, influenced the decision to award Enugu the hosting rights for the 2026 festival, following the 2024 edition set to be hosted by Ogun State. 

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) will this morning present  to the public the new Head Coach of the Super Eagles, Éric Chelle.

A statement by Ademola Olajire, NFF’s Director of Communications on Sunday said the event is holding at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja by 11 a.m.

Chelle’s appointment was confirmed last week  Tuesday by the NFF Executive Committee, following a recommendation by the football ruling body’s Technical and Development Committee.

The 47-year-old will mount one of the hottest seats in world football, but President of the NFF, Ibrahim Gusau, was quoted on Sunday as saying that the Coach had all it takes to succeed.

“The Franco-Malian embodies the fresh energy, new thinking and positive attitude with which the Federation desire the Super Eagles to confront their remaining six matches in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.

“We appreciate the fact that Nigerians are very passionate about the game of football, and that is the reason for the different tones of reactions following the appointment of Coach Chelle.

“However, the NFF hereby appeals to Nigerians to come together and support him, as we believe he has the qualities to achieve success with the Super Eagles.

“The NFF will give him all the support that he needs to succeed in the job,” Gusau said

At Monday’s unveiling, the NFF will also disclose the names of Coach Chelle’s assistants, with the crew to shepherd the Super Eagles B at next month’s African Nations Championship in East Africa.

This is before focusing squarely on the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, beginning with the matches against Rwanda (away) and Zimbabwe (home) in March.

Nigerian boxer, Anthony Joshua, has paid a visit to President Bola Tinubu at his residence in Lagos.

The two-time world heavyweight champion also present an autograph glove to the President, signed “To the Great Asiwaju Jagaban Borgu of Africa, Bola A Tinubu.”

This was sited in a post by Special Assistant to the President on Social Media, Mr. Dada Olusegun.

He wrote, “Champ @anthonyjoshua pays Homage to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at his residence in Lagos. Presents him with his autographed glove.”