The closing ceremony of the 27th Nigeria University Games Association (NUGA) hosted by the University of Jos reached an emotional peak as the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, delivered a heartfelt address celebrating what he described as one of the most successful editions in the history of the competition.
Prof. Amupitan, who previously served as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of the University of Jos, began by acknowledging the dignitaries present, including the Governor of Plateau State, represented by the Deputy Governor, Josephine Piyo, and the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Tanko Ishaya. He noted that the ceremony held deep personal meaning for him because he was heavily involved in the planning of the games before assuming his new national role.
The INEC Chairman explained that preparations for the 27th NUGA Games began months earlier during his time in university administration. He recalled being fully immersed in the organizational process as co-chair of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC), a responsibility he carried with dedication prior to his appointment to a federal assignment. This, he said, made witnessing the final success of the event especially gratifying.
Reflecting on the long journey to the games, Prof. Amupitan described the experience as one filled with numerous challenges but also remarkable teamwork and resilience. According to him, the seamless hosting of the tournament stands as a testament to what committed leadership and collective effort can achieve. He expressed joy that despite pressures and uncertainties, the university stood firm and delivered beyond expectations.
He then offered special commendations to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Tanko Ishaya, praising him for leading the institution through what he termed “a great feat.” Prof. Amupitan emphasized that the 2025 edition of the NUGA Games has set a new benchmark for organization, logistics, participation, and overall execution. He went as far as describing it as “the best NUGA Games ever in recent times.”
One of the highlights of his speech was the revelation that this year’s competition recorded an unprecedented turnout. A total of 91 universities participated, the highest number in the history of NUGA. Prof. Amupitan noted that this single achievement solidifies UNIJOS’s place in the history books and demonstrates the institution’s growing national relevance.
The INEC Chairman also recounted a moment during the planning stage when the possibility of shifting the games was considered due to unavoidable circumstances. He explained that the challenges at the time appeared overwhelming and could have derailed the entire event. However, UNIJOS did not back down, insisting on fulfilling its commitment to host the tournament, a decision that he now described as courageous and rewarding.
Addressing the performance aspect of the games, Prof. Amupitan hinted that UNIJOS might emerge top of the medal table, although he acknowledged that the final standings would be officially released by the NUGA authorities. He stated that finishing at the top was one of the aspirations behind the university’s determination to host the competition.
He further extended his appreciation to the athletes who travelled from across Nigeria to participate in the games. Their presence, he said, added vibrancy, energy, and competitive spirit to the event. He praised their resilience and expressed confidence that they showcased some of the best talents Nigerian universities have to offer.
Prof. Amupitan described the city of Jos as a serene and beautiful environment, expressing hope that the athletes enjoyed their stay. He noted that the hospitality of the university and the city would leave a lasting impression on visitors, many of whom he believed might wish to extend their stay even after the conclusion of the games.
In his remarks, he also emphasized the symbolic importance of hosting the competition in Plateau State. According to him, the athletes played a role in projecting the state as peaceful and welcoming. “You have been part of the beacon of peace on the Plateau,” he remarked, stressing that their presence contributed to changing negative narratives and promoting unity.
As the ceremony came to a close, Prof. Amupitan offered prayers for safe journeys as contingents return to their various states. He urged everyone to travel with gratitude and to remember the positive experiences shared over the course of the games. He noted that beyond medals and celebrations, NUGA 2025 has fostered friendships and strengthened national bonds.
He ended his speech by blessing the athletes, officials, and the entire university community. With heartfelt appreciation, he thanked everyone for playing a part in the success story of what he described as an unforgettable chapter in the history of Nigerian university sports.
