Jos is set to become the centre of North Central sporting activity as athletes from across the zone converge on Plateau State for the zonal elimination of the maiden National Intermediate Games tagged “Eko 2026.”
The three-day competition, scheduled for September 10 to 12, will determine the teams that progress to the national stage of the National Intermediate Games in Lagos.
The Federal Sports Centre in Rayfield will host the competition, with participating states expected to arrive in Jos on September 9 ahead of the events.
11 SPORTS TO TAKE CENTRE STAGE
Athletes from across the North Central Zone will compete in 11 team sports, providing an opportunity for emerging talents to showcase their abilities across different disciplines.
The programme includes Abula, Basketball (3×3), Wheelchair Basketball, Beach Volleyball, Cricket, Handball, Hockey, Football, Volleyball, Netball and Rugby.
Most of the sports will feature both male and female categories, while Netball will be contested exclusively by female athletes.
A ROUTE TO THE NATIONAL STAGE
Beyond the competition in Jos, the zonal elimination serves as a qualification pathway for athletes seeking to represent the North Central Zone at the maiden National Intermediate Games in Lagos.
JOS SET TO WELCOME ATHLETES AND OFFICIALS
The event is expected to provide participating athletes with valuable competitive exposure while giving teams the opportunity to test themselves against some of the promising sporting talents from across the zone.
The arrival of athletes and officials is scheduled for September 9, with accommodation arranged at St. John’s College and the National Youth Centre, Lamingo.
The hosting of the zonal elimination further places Plateau State in the spotlight as preparations continue for the first edition of the National Intermediate Games.
Competition will run from September 10 to 12 at the Federal Sports Centre, Rayfield, before participants are scheduled to depart on September 13.
For three days, Jos will provide the stage for athletes from the North Central Zone to compete for the opportunity to take their talents to the national level in Lagos.