Mixed Martial Arts Confirmed For 2026 National Sports Festival

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has been officially included as a compulsory sport at the 26th National Sports Festival, scheduled to take place in Enugu in 2026.

The Nigeria Mixed Martial Arts Federation (NMMAF) announced this landmark decision by the National Sports Commission, hailing it as a significant milestone for the sport’s growth and recognition in Nigeria. It underscores MMA’s increasing prominence and its acceptance as a key part of the nation’s sporting landscape.

As the national governing body for MMA in Nigeria, the NMMAF continues to collaborate with state associations, athletes, coaches, and stakeholders nationwide to ensure smooth participation, talent development, and the successful delivery of MMA events at the Festival. This inclusion establishes a structured pathway for athletes across all states and strengthens Nigeria’s standing within the global MMA community through the NMMAF’s affiliation with the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF).