By Amaechi Agbo
The organisers of the Sport-For-All Commission under the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) have announced a one-week postponement of the 2026 Olympic Day celebration 28th no fewer than 18 States indicating readiness to be part of the programme.
Initially scheduled for Saturday, June 27, 2026, the nationwide event will now take place on Saturday, July 4, 2026.
The decision to shift the date was made on Friday, June 6 during an emergency meeting of the committee
The participating States would now s 2ndufficient time to organise local celebrations on a day completely free from other conflicting commitments and logistical bottlenecks.
Olympic Day is an annual global event organised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to promote mass participation in physical activities on a non-competitive basis.
The initiative aims to raise public awareness about the ideals of sports as a vital tool for promoting a healthy, active lifestyle.
Addressing members during the emergency meeting, the Chairman of the NOC Sport-For-All Commission, Dr Abdul Ibrahim, acknowledged the challenges posed by the current tough business climate.
However, he urged all members to give their best efforts to ensure a resounding success.
“You have always strived to achieve the best, and this year’s event should not be an exception,” Dr Ibrahim charged the committee.
He further commended the leadership of the Nigerian Olympic Committee (NOC), led by Engr. Habu Ahmed Gumel, for its steadfast support of the Commission’s efforts to ensure the event’s annual success.
So far, not less than 18 states have officially indicated interest in hosting this year’s celebrations.
Among the frontline states confirmed to participate are those that have tentatively indicated interest to participate in the 2026 Olympic Day celebration are; Delta, Bayelsa, Ondo, Edo, Akwa Ibom, Jigawa, Gombe, Plateau, Taraba, FCT, Oyo, Anambra, Zamfara, Imo, Yobe, Kogi, Sokoto and Adamawa. Other states are still being awaited to signal their intention
The NOC encouraged corporate organisations, philanthropic individuals, and the general public to join the movement to foster national unity, bridge generational gaps, and build a healthier society through the social joy of exercise.
