The 27th edition of the Nigeria University Games Association (NUGA), hosted by the University of Jos (UNIJOS), delivered another thrilling chapter in its ongoing competitions as the swimming events unfolded in spectacular fashion at the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja. The atmosphere was charged with energy and cheers as student-athletes from across Nigerian universities displayed remarkable talent, endurance, and competitive spirit in various swimming categories.
Men’s 50m Breaststroke Final: Urounah Victor Shines Bright for Benson Idahosa University
In one of the most tightly contested races of the day, Urounah Victor from Benson Idahosa University (BIU) clinched the gold medal in the Men’s 50m Breaststroke event with a finishing time of 32.28 seconds. His flawless stroke technique and incredible pace gave him a commanding edge over other competitors, cementing his reputation as one of the most formidable swimmers in the competition.
Coming in second place was Doulahuman Augustine from Delta State University (DELSU), who clocked 34.45 seconds after a strong performance that kept him within striking distance of the leader. The third position went to Enipiegha Ego of Nigerian Maritime University (NMU), who finished in 39.50 seconds, demonstrating stamina and determination in a hard-fought battle for the podium.
The fourth position was secured by Abubakar Jamiu from Adekunle Ajasin University (AAUA), finishing closely with 39.56 seconds, while Okenmeka Lawrence of Nigerian Maritime University followed in 43.48 seconds. Alimi Oluwadamilare from University of Ibadan (UI) came sixth with 46.73 seconds, and Yu Tommy from Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) finished seventh with a time of 47.62 seconds.
In the latter part of the rankings, Okafor Chinemeren from Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) placed eighth after completing the race in 1:18.13, followed by Shitu Abubakar from Kaduna State University (KASU) in ninth place with 1:19.45. Unfortunately, Monday Israel from Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) was disqualified (DQ) due to a rule violation.
Women’s 100m Freestyle: Kimiakigha Joy Leads BIU to More Glory
The women’s category witnessed an equally thrilling contest as Kimiakigha Joy from Benson Idahosa University (BIU) stole the spotlight, taking first place in the 100m Freestyle with a spectacular time of 1:09.54. Her seamless turns and powerful finish captivated spectators and earned BIU its second gold medal of the day.
The second position went to Garry Tamaraudedieneni from Delta State University (DELSU), who displayed commendable technique and endurance, finishing at 1:22.12. Osinaike Shalom from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) clinched the third spot with a time of 1:27.09, showing great composure and effort to stay within medal range.
Other strong performances included Balogun Aishat from University of Ibadan (UI), who came fourth with 1:39.96, and her teammate Aloba Esther, who secured fifth place with 1:47.95. Sijuola Oluwatobi from Ekiti State University (EKSU) finished sixth at 2:19.54, while Adebayo Oluwademilade of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) completed the race in 2:38.90, placing seventh.
Medals Table: Delta State University Leads with Consistency and Depth
At the close of the day’s swimming events, Delta State University (DELSU) emerged as the overall leader on the medals table, showcasing both strength and consistency across categories. The university’s swimmers displayed remarkable team coordination and competitive edge, securing 5 Gold and 5 Silver medals, putting them firmly at the top.
In second place, Benson Idahosa University (BIU) followed closely with 5 Gold medals, largely due to the outstanding performances of its star swimmers, Urounah Victor and Kimiakigha Joy, who dominated their respective events. The University of Ibadan (UI) secured third position with 2 Silver medals, while Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE) finished fourth with 2 Silver medals as well, reflecting their impressive technical growth in university-level swimming.
Nigerian Maritime University (NMU) ranked fifth, collecting 1 Silver and 3 Bronze medals, thanks to consistent podium finishes in both men’s and women’s events. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) followed in sixth position with 3 Bronze medals, while Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) finished seventh with 2 Bronze medals. Adekunle Ajasin University (AAUA) completed the table in eighth place, securing 1 Bronze medal.
A Celebration of Skill, Strength, and Sportsmanship
The swimming events at the MKO Abiola National Stadium showcased the growing depth of talent among Nigerian university athletes. The coordination, discipline, and sportsmanship displayed by the competitors reflected the high standards of preparation going into the 27th NUGA Games.
As the competition progresses, attention now shifts to upcoming relays and long-distance events, where universities will continue to battle for aquatic supremacy. With Delta State University and Benson Idahosa University setting the pace, the race for the overall swimming championship promises even more exhilarating moments ahead.
The Nigeria Education News remains live at University of Jos and MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, bringing you exclusive coverage, interviews, and up-to-date results from the heart of the 27th NUGA Games.
