Onyali, Okorie, Owumi among former internationals inaugurated as Enugu unveils list of LOC for 23rd National Sports Festival

Former African queen of the track and five-time Olympian, Mary Onyali tops the list of former Nigeria internationals inaugurated Wednesday as members of the Local Organising Committee for the 23rd National Sports Festival scheduled to hold in 2026.

Also inaugurated are former Enugu Rangers player, Davidson Owumi, former track and field international, Victor Okorie and Nigeria international and chairman of the Nigerian Athletes Commission, the highly respected and cerebral Henry Chinedu Okorie.

Also included is Olumide Bamiduro, the Director of FEAD at the National Sports Commission who is also former national badminton champion who will serve as the Secretary General of the LOC,

Others are Blessing Chisalam Ekwe, COO of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, FIFA-licensed agent, Tony Ugwu, Chairman, Enugu State Football Association, Jonathan Nnaji, President, Nigeria Modern Pentathlon Federation; VP, Africa Modern Pentathlon Confederation, Boniface Onovo, Director of Organizing, Enugu State Ministry of Youth and Sports, Ephraim Ochonma, Director of Coaching, Enugu State Ministry of Youth and Sports and Obiora Obasi, Technical Assistant to the Honourable Commissioner

Meanwhile, Bukola Olopade, the Director General of the National Sports Commission has commended the Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah for his swift action and commitment to hosting a successful festival.

‘With the inauguration of this high-powered Local Organizing Committee, we are confident that Enugu 2026 will raise the bar in excellence, inclusion, and legacy. The caliber of individuals on this committee reflects the seriousness with which Enugu is approaching this national assignment.

‘The National Sports Commission is fully aligned and will provide all necessary support to ensure a seamless festival that inspires hope, talent discovery, and national unity,’ Olopade stated on behalf of Mallam Shehu Dikko, the Chairman of the National Sports Commission.

The newly inaugurated LOC, is chaired by the Enugu State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Lloyd Ike Ekweremadu Jr.