National Sports Festival: Enugu Unveils ‘Odumeze’ Mascot Ahead Of November Games
Enugu State has stepped up preparations for the 2026 National Sports Festival with the unveiling of the official mascot, ‘Odumeze’, by the National Sports Commission (NSC), in partnership with the Local Organising Committee (LOC) and Main Organising Committee (MOC).
The unveiling ceremony took place on Friday at the Enugu State International Conference Centre following an inspection of key facilities across the state ahead of the multi-sport festival scheduled for November.
Enugu State Deputy Governor, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai, who represented Governor Peter Mbah, performed the unveiling of the mascot, ‘Odumeze’, which, according to the deputy governor, translates to ‘Boldness, Strength and Power’.
Ossai said the values represented by the mascot reflect the spirit of the Games as well as the identity of the people of Enugu State, assuring that the state and its people are ready to host a successful festival.
‘Enugu and its people are ready to host the festival,’ Ossai said, reaffirming the state government’s commitment to delivering a world-class event.
NSC Director General, Bukola Olopade, who witnessed the unveiling, described it as an important activation designed to build nationwide momentum and generate greater awareness for the Games.
‘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,’ Olopade said.
‘We had a very brief event and it’s amazing. I am very proud to be associated with ‘Odumeze’.’
Olopade commended the Enugu State Government and the LOC for the pace of preparations, assuring that the NSC would continue to work with all stakeholders to ensure the Festival meets international standards.
Enugu State Commissioner for Sports, Barr. Lloyd Ike Ekweremadu, also expressed appreciation to the dignitaries and partners supporting the preparations, saying Governor Mbah had been working seriously to ensure the state delivers a memorable festival.
He added that Enugu had drawn lessons from previous editions and was focused on providing quality facilities, athlete welfare, security and hospitality for participants.
With the unveiling of ‘Odumeze’, the countdown to the National Sports Festival has officially begun, with preparations continuing across competition venues, accommodation, medical services and transportation ahead of the November spectacle.
