Niger seeks N63m for 2026 National Sports Festival in Enugu

Niger State requires at least N63 million to prepare for the 2026 National Sports Festival in Enugu. The state is planning a contingent of about 215 athletes and officials, with a target of no fewer than 10 gold medals.

The funding request covers athlete preparation, sports equipment and allowances for participants and officials. It also includes the state’s involvement in the zonal competition, with the Niger State Sports Commission asking the government to release the money early enough for preparations.

Commission chairman Danjuma Abdul Masu said Niger would enter events including athletics, judo, handball, football, darts, badminton and boxing. The state is also seeking to widen its medal opportunities through shooting and darts associations that have recently been established.

Niger’s 10-gold target would be a first for the state, but the commission believes it is attainable after reviewing the performances of its athletes at national level. A detailed assessment of the sporting associations was used to identify disciplines where the state has credible medal prospects.

Badminton has been highlighted as one of Niger’s strongest areas, with the state described as a leading force in the discipline. The commission’s strategy is to build on that strength while creating additional medal routes through the newer associations.

Masu said the target was based on planned investment and preparation rather than ambition alone. Niger will therefore enter the Enugu festival seeking to improve on its previous performances, while the requested N63 million remains central to assembling and preparing the full contingent.