The 27th edition of the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) officially opened on Saturday, November 8, at the University of Jos (UNIJOS), Plateau State, bringing together thousands of student-athletes from across the country for one of Nigeria’s biggest university sporting events.
This year’s edition, themed ‘Unity, Play in Peace’, attracted 4,181 athletes representing universities nationwide. They will compete in 23 different sports, including athletics, football, basketball, volleyball, swimming, tennis, and e-sports, among others.
The colourful opening ceremony, held at the J.T. Useni Stadium, featured a parade of participating universities, cultural performances, and the lighting of the NUGA torch, symbolising unity and sportsmanship.
In his address, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang commended the University of Jos for successfully hosting the Games. He reaffirmed his administration’s support for youth and sports development. Also, the governor noted that the state government had upgraded key facilities, including the stadium fence, pavilion, and tartan track, to ensure a smooth hosting experience.
‘We are proud to host this prestigious event that promotes peace and unity through sports. Plateau State remains committed to providing adequate security and logistics support throughout the Games,’ the governor said.
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos, Professor Ishaya Tanko, expressed gratitude to NUGA for granting the university the hosting rights. He described the event as an opportunity to celebrate excellence and discover new talents.
‘Our goal is not just to host but to make history. We are showing that through sports, young Nigerians can find common grounds, build friendship, and contribute to national unity,’ he stated.
The week-long event, which runs until November 16, is expected to boost tourism, hospitality, and local businesses in Jos, as thousands of athletes, officials and visitors flood the city.
According to organisers, the Games will also involve over 1,000 volunteers, 67 media representatives, and 193 observing athletes from newly registered universities preparing to join future editions of NUGA.
The NUGA Games, established in 1966, continue to serve as a platform for nurturing young sporting talents and fostering collaboration among Nigeria’s higher institutions.