Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has assured Nigerians and athletes nationwide of the state’s readiness to host the 2026 National Sports Festival, with ongoing efforts to upgrade key sporting facilities.
Speaking during his investiture as President of Enugu Sports Club and the commissioning of the remodeled clubhouse, Mbah highlighted plans to revamp the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium and the Games Village in Awgu. He emphasized that these upgrades align with his administration’s vision to grow the state’s economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion, attract over three million tourists, and create job opportunities for youths.
“We are giving our stadium a brand-new look, including facilities for aquatic sports. The Awgu Sports and Games Village will also be revamped to ensure it is ready for the festival,” he stated.
The governor also noted that improvements in transportation infrastructure were part of the broader strategy to support economic growth. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fulfilling campaign promises, citing massive road infrastructure projects as proof of his development agenda.
Highlighting financial reforms, Mbah stated that the state’s revenue has increased through technological advancements and asset revitalization, with a projection to surpass ₦600 billion in internally generated revenue (IGR) by 2025. He assured that taxes had not been raised but rather that revenue collection had been streamlined.
Governor Mbah commended the Enugu Sports Club for its contributions to the state’s history and development, pledging continued support for its role in fostering recreation and social cohesion. He also praised the outgoing chairman, Sir Victor Atuonwu, for his leadership in remodeling the clubhouse.
The event was attended by notable figures, including former Governor Sullivan Chime, former Minister of Information Chief Nnia Nwodo, and former Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Prof. Bartho Okolo.