Bayelsa, Kaduna Named Hosts of 2028 and 2030 National Sports Festivals
Bayelsa and Kaduna States have been officially confirmed as hosts of the next two editions of the National Sports Festival beyond 2026, following decisions reached at the National Council on Sports meeting held in Calabar, Cross River State.
The Council, which met on Friday, November 28, 2025, at the Kashim Shettima Hall of the State Library Complex, deliberated extensively on sports development under the theme “Business of Sports: Creating Jobs, Wealth, and Utility under the Renewed Hope Agenda.”
In recognition of the significant investments made by Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa and Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna in sports infrastructure, the Council announced Bayelsa as host of the 2028 National Sports Festival, with Kaduna to follow in 2030.
The decision underscores the growing importance of both states in Nigeria’s sporting landscape and their commitment to providing world-class facilities for athletes.
The Council also commended the National Sports Commission for approving the construction of international-standard swimming pools for the next three host states, beginning with Enugu, which will stage the 23rd edition of the Festival, tagged Coal City Games, in November 2026.
By awarding hosting rights to Bayelsa and Kaduna, the Council signaled confidence in their capacity to deliver successful events that will not only showcase sporting excellence but also drive job creation, wealth generation, and community development in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
