All is set for the 19th National Sports Festival.
After several setbacks ranging from withdrawal by proposed host state and certain participating athletes, the biennial event will go ahead from December 6 to16 in Abuja.
To guide you through, here are four things you should know.
1 – Nigeria’s mini-Olympics
The game was originally conceived as a “unifying tool” with the main purpose of promoting peace and cross-cultural affiliation in the country after the Civil War in 1970. The first edition was held in 1973 in Lagos.
2 – FG to the rescue after Cross River’s withdrawal
The Federal Government took up the challenge to host the competition in Abuja after Cross River state’s abrupt withdrawal. Sports Minister, Solomon Dalung explained, “The federal Government realizing the collateral damage that the unending postponements of the festival portend for sports development in Nigeria accepted the resolution of the National Council of Sports to take over the hosting and organization of the games in 2018 with Abuja as the host city.”
3 – Terrible state of National Stadium
The National Stadium will host the major events. However, the 60,000-capacity edifice isn’t in the best shape for such competition. It was reported that Fulani herdsmen were spotted inside the main bowl just three days to the official opening ceremony.
4 – Record Attendance and Games
According to Mr Dalung, over 8,000 participants will take part in this edition which is a new record. The Minister also claims it will feature 37 sports – an increase from 25 in the past.
