UNIJOS-NUGA 2025 Records Highest Number of Participating Universities Since Inception

The Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has declared open the 27th edition of the Nigerian Universities Games Association (NUGA) competition hosted by the University of Jos, describing the event as a clear demonstration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for Nigerian youth. Governor Aiyedatiwa, who performed the opening ceremony at the J.T. Useni Stadium, Naraguta Campus, commended the Federal Government for investing in Nigerian youth through sports and education, noting that such initiatives align with the President’s vision for national development and inclusivity.

According to him, “The NUGA Games is an investment in our youth worth every effort. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu understands the value of education, and education encompasses sports. That is why he has introduced several initiatives, including the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), to ensure no student is left out.”

He observed that Jos, the host city, has historically nurtured great minds and produced outstanding Nigerians despite economic and social challenges, saying the University of Jos has continued to make its mark as an institution of excellence and resilience.

Governor Aiyedatiwa commended the Federal Government through TETFund for funding projects that supported the successful hosting of the Games. He urged athletes to compete with passion, fairness, and integrity, stressing that, true success is merited. He said, “The Games create an avenue for shared aspiration and unity among our youth. You are beacons of hope for your families and the nation. Compete honorably and make this platform a springboard for your future success.”

In his remarks, the Chief Host and Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, urged participants to compete fearlessly but with dignity, emphasizing that “no medal is worth winning indignantly.” He advised the athletes to see NUGA not only as a competition but also as a platform for building friendships that will add value to their lives in the future.

Governor Mutfwang commended the University of Jos Management for hosting a befitting competition and appreciated the security agencies for maintaining orderliness and ensuring a peaceful atmosphere during the Games.

Similarly, Acting Chairman of NUGA, Dr. Michael Ajibua commended the University of Jos for organizing what he described as one of the most successful and inclusive NUGA Games in history.

He noted that the 27th edition recorded the highest number of participating universities since the inception of the competition, a development he attributed to the institution’s reputation and commitment to excellence.

Also speaking, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University of Jos, Senator Grace Folashade Bent, said hosting the prestigious event is a clear testament to the University’s growing reputation as a centre of excellence, unity, and national integration. She reminded athletes that beyond medals and trophies lies the greater reward of “lifelong friendships and memories that strengthen the bond of the university system and the nation.”

Senator Bent appreciated Governor Aiyedatiwa for declaring the Games open and extended heartfelt gratitude to the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, for his unwavering support which made the hosting possible.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Host, 27th NUGA edition and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos, Professor Tanko Ishaya, described hosting the Games as both an honour and a responsibility.

According to Professor Tanko Ishaya, “It is an affirmation of the confidence reposed in our institution by NUGA and, by extension, the Nigerian university system. UNIJOS has always been a symbol of unity in diversity, a place where people from different backgrounds come together in pursuit of knowledge and excellence.”

The Vice-Chancellor expressed optimism that new sporting talents would emerge from the competition to strengthen Nigeria’s national teams and bring glory to the nation. He appreciated the Plateau State Government under Governor Mutfwang for the tremendous support given to the university throughout its preparations.

The opening ceremony was graced by several dignitaries, including the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko; the Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State, Dr. Emmanuel Agbadu Akabe, the Deputy Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ode, and the Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Na'anlong Daniel, among others.

The NUGA-UNIJOS 2025 Games continues to attract excitement and national attention, symbolizing unity, youth empowerment, and the renewed spirit of excellence across Nigerian universities.

Signed

Mr. Emmanuel Madugu

Deputy Registrar

Information and Publications

For: Registrar