National Sports Festival Mascot Unveiled as Enugu Signals Readiness For Games

The National Sports Commission in partnership with the Local Organising Committee (LOC) and Main Organising Committee (MOC), on Friday unveiled the official mascot for the National Sports Festival scheduled for November 2026 in Enugu State.

The unveiling ceremony was held at the Enugu State International Conference Centre, following the inspection of key facilities across the state ahead of the glamorous multi-sport fiesta.

The Enugu State Deputy Governor, His Excellency Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai, who represented His Excellency, Governor Dr. Peter Mbah, performed the unveiling formalities of the mascot named ‘ODUMEZE’.

According to the Deputy Governor, ‘Odumeze’ which means Boldness, Strength and Power, in Igboland, values that reflect both the spirit of the Games and the identity of the people of Enugu State.

“Enugu and its people are ready to host the festival,” Barr. Ossai said, reaffirming the state government’s commitment to delivering a world-class event.

The Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, who was present at the unveiling ceremony, described the event as a critical activation to build momentum for the Games nationwide.

“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,” Hon. Olopade said.

“We had a very brief event and it’s amazing. I am very proud to be associated with ‘Odumeze’.”

He commended the Enugu State Government and the LOC for the pace of preparations and assured that the NSC will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to ensure the Festival meets international standards.

Also speaking, the Enugu State Commissioner for Sports, Barr. Lloyd Ike Ekweremadu, expressed appreciation to dignitaries and partners who have supported the process so far.

“We want to appreciate the dignitaries who stayed to ensure that we are able to host this festival successfully to international standards,” the Commissioner stated.

“The Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah has been working seriously to ensure that Enugu State hosts a very memorable Festival.”

He added that the state has taken lessons from previous editions and is focused on delivering excellent facilities, athlete welfare, security, and hospitality for all participants.

With the unveiling of ‘Odumeze’, the countdown to the National Sports Festival has officially begun. The NSC, LOC and MOC say preparations are on track across venues, accommodation, medical, and transport to host Nigeria’s biggest sporting event in November.

The Commission calls on athletes, coaches, state sports councils, corporate partners and Nigerians to rally behind ‘Odumeze’ as the face of unity, strength and sporting excellence.