UNIJOS Set to Host Historic 27th NUGA Games as University Declares Full Readiness
The University of Jos has announced that preparations are in top gear to host what is expected to be one of the most outstanding editions of the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA). The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Tanko Ishaya, confirmed that the institution is fully ready to welcome over 10,000 athletes and officials from 22 universities across the country for the games scheduled to hold from November 6 to November 16.
According to Prof. Ishaya, the university community, alongside residents of Plateau State, is prepared to ensure a memorable and peaceful experience for all participants. He emphasized that the hosting of the games is not just a sporting event, but an opportunity to showcase the vibrant culture, hospitality, and peace within the state.
He said the university has been working tirelessly to deliver the best edition of the games. “We are fully prepared to host one of the best NUGA games in history. The students, staff, and the entire Plateau community are ready to receive contingents from across the nation. Plateau is safe, peaceful, and open to visitors,” he stated.
The Vice Chancellor expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, the National Sports Commission, and the Ministry of Education for their support. He also acknowledged President Bola Tinubu for promoting sports development, and praised Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, for backing the university’s efforts. According to him, hosting the games will boost the local economy, especially with thousands of visitors expected to lodge, shop, and patronize local businesses.
Speaking further, the Chairman of the Media and Publicity Sub-Committee, Prof. Taye Obateru, highlighted the significance of the event, noting that it provides a platform to promote sports development, build future athletes, and strengthen partnerships that support both the sports and business sectors in the state. He added that the event is also an opportunity to reshape the narrative about Plateau State as a peaceful and welcoming destination.
Also, Dr Peter Gad, the Global President of the University of Jos Alumni Association, stated that the games will showcase the talent, creativity, and unity of young people across Nigeria. He said the event will contribute to social and infrastructural development within Jos and its surrounding communities.
Meanwhile, rugby has officially been included among the 22 sports scheduled for the 27th NUGA Games. Other approved sports include athletics, basketball, football, swimming, tennis, table tennis, volleyball, judo, taekwondo, cricket, handball, scrabble, rowing and yachting, chess, boxing, e-sports, hockey, karate, squash, and beach volleyball.
Reacting to the inclusion of rugby, the President of the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation, Dr Ademola Are, described it as an important milestone. He said the development reflects the continued push by stakeholders to promote and expand the sport in Nigeria. “This is encouraging. It shows that all the efforts to give rugby more recognition are paying off. We must continue to promote the game until it receives the attention it deserves,” he said.
As the countdown to the opening ceremony continues, excitement is rising across campuses and sporting communities nationwide, with expectations high that the University of Jos will deliver an unforgettable sporting festival.
