The 27th edition of the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) officially commenced on Saturday at the J.T. Useni Stadium, University of Jos, marking a historic milestone with the highest number of participating universities in the association’s history.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Acting President of NUGA, Dr. Michael Ajibua, announced that 91 universities from across the country were in attendance, with more than 7,800 student-athletes and 2,750 officials participating in 23 sporting events.
“This is the highest number of participating universities in NUGA history,” Dr. Ajibua declared. “NUGA has grown from an initial five members to 119, and today, 91 of them are represented here. This reflects not only the growth of university sports but the unity and diversity of our great nation.”
He commended the University of Jos for its exceptional preparation and hospitality in hosting the competition, as well as the sponsors and partners who made the event possible.
“Your contributions are invaluable,” he said. “As we celebrate the 27th edition of NUGA, let us remember the power of sports to unite, inspire, and transform lives. I encourage all participants to compete with excellence, discipline, and sportsmanship.”
In his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos, Professor Tanko Ishaya, expressed gratitude to the Plateau State Government, the Federal Government, and corporate sponsors for their unwavering support.
“To our athletes, you trained hard, you pushed when it seemed impossible. Now is your moment to show the nation what greatness looks like when passion meets discipline,” he said. “Winning is beautiful, but sportsmanship is legendary. Here in NUGA, we don’t just compete to beat each other; we compete to be better together.”
Professor Ishaya also commended Plateau State Governor Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for his leadership and commitment to the success of the games, noting that his government’s logistical and infrastructural support was instrumental in making the event possible.
Also present at the ceremony was the Pro-Chancellor of the University of Jos, Senator Grace Folashade Bent, who urged participants to see the games as a celebration of national unity and youthful potential.
“May these games renew in us a collective belief in the greatness of our nation and the extraordinary promise of its young people,” she said.
Declaring the games open, Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, encouraged participants to embody the spirit of unity and fairness throughout the tournament.
“These games represent the best of what Nigeria can be, a nation where diversity is strength, merit is rewarded, and young people are empowered to reach their potential,” Aiyedatiwa stated. “May this competition strengthen the bonds that hold us together and inspire us to build the Nigeria of our dreams.”
In his remarks, Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State welcomed the athletes and officials, emphasizing the unifying role of sports in nation-building.
“This gathering promotes unity and collaboration,” he said. “I urge all participants to compete fairly and represent the best of our humanity.”
The ceremony culminated in the lighting of the NUGA torch, symbolizing the official commencement of the games.
Dignitaries in attendance included the Deputy Governors of Nasarawa and Benue States; Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly; Secretary to the Plateau State Government; Chief of Staff, Plateau State; Chairman of the Nigerian Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko; Minister of State for Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa; Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Prof. Abdullahi Ribadu; and Dr. Gad Shamaki Peter, Global President of the University of Jos Alumni Association (UJAA), among others.
The 27th NUGA Games is expected to run across multiple venues in Jos, with athletes competing in disciplines including athletics, football, basketball, volleyball, swimming, and table tennis.
