Countdown to NUGA 2025 Begins as UNIJOS Takes Jos Streets by Storm

The city of Jos was alive with color, rhythm, and athletic energy on Monday as the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos (UNIJOS), Professor Tanko Ishaya, led a spirited procession of management staff, alumni, students, and sports enthusiasts to officially launch the countdown to the 27th Nigerian Universities Games Association (NUGA) Games.

The launch featured a lively road walk through major streets of Jos, turning the city into one big pre-NUGA carnival. Participants donned vibrant traditional attires, danced to pulsating beats, and distributed flyers to create awareness about the historic event, the first-ever NUGA Games to be hosted on the Plateau. For once, Jos traffic had no complaints, even motorists slowed down to enjoy the free entertainment.

Speaking at the event, Professor Ishaya expressed gratitude to the Governor of Plateau State, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, and other stakeholders for their steadfast support in making NUGA 2025 a reality. He described the Games as “a once-in-a-generation opportunity for progress,” urging all Plateau residents to welcome athletes and guests warmly, preferably with smiles, not just selfies.

According to the Vice-Chancellor, more than 10,000 athletes and officials from tertiary institutions across Nigeria are expected to participate in the Games. He emphasized that sustained peace and hospitality in the State would not only ensure a successful event but also help boost tourism and economic activity long after the final whistle.

Professor Tanko Ishaya added that this countdown is more than a date on a calendar, it’s a call to greatness, a celebration of talent, teamwork, and the Josite spirit that never quits. He encouraged students and staff to give their best, noting that the outcomes of NUGA 2025 will transform lives, one race, one goal, and one gold at a time.

The Chairman of the Publicity Sub-Committee, Professor Taye Obateru, added his signature flair, calling on media professionals to ensure the event receives the coverage it deserves. “Let the drums roll, let the banners fly,” he declared enthusiastically. “NUGA UNIJOS 2025 is here, and we’re starting in grand style!”

As the road walk ended, it was clear that the countdown had begun not just on calendars, but in the hearts of everyone on the Plateau. With music in the air, sneakers on the move, and pride in their steps, UNIJOS has set the tone for what promises to be Nigeria’s most exciting university games yet, where sports, culture, and the famous Jos weather will all be on the same team.

Signed

Tongdyen D.S. Dachung

Principal Assistant Registrar

Information and Publications

For: Deputy Registrar