UNIJOS GIVES HEROIC WELCOME TO PLATEAU STATE GOVERNMENT AS GOVERNOR MUTFWANG INSPECTS NUGA GAMES FACILITIES

The Management of the University of Jos has accorded a heroic and colourful welcome to the Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, and his entourage during their visit to inspect facilities designated for the forthcoming Nigerian Universities Games Association (NUGA) competition 2025.

The inspection visit took place at the J.T. Useni Stadium on the Naraguta Campus of the University, where the Governor was warmly received by the University Management, staff, and students. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as the University showcased its level of preparedness to host the prestigious national sporting event.

Leading the University Management team was the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tanko Ishaya, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Rahila Plangnan Gowon. The Acting Director, Directorate of Physical facilities of the University, Architect Pam Bot briefed the Governor on the state of readiness of the facilities that will host the various sporting events during the competition.

In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor expressed appreciation to the Plateau State Government for its consistent support to the University. He noted that the forthcoming NUGA Games would serve as a platform to project both the University of Jos and Plateau State as centres of sporting excellence in Nigeria.
Professor Pam Ishaya, Chairman, University Sports Committee, however, highlighted some challenges facing the institution in its preparations, particularly in areas of infrastructure, logistics, and accommodation for athletes and officials. He appealed for the intervention of the State Government to address these needs and ensure a successful and memorable hosting of the Games.

Responding, Governor Caleb Mutfwang commended the University Management for its proactive efforts and unwavering commitment to promoting sports development and academic excellence. He described the University of Jos as one of the State’s most strategic institutions and expressed delight at the remarkable progress recorded in the upgrading of the NUGA facilities.

The Governor assured that the Plateau State Government would provide full support to ensure the successful hosting of the Games, noting that the event presents a unique opportunity to showcase Plateau’s hospitality, unity, and peaceful coexistence to the rest of the country.

Governor Mutfwang also pledged the State Government’s collaboration in actualizing the University’s vision of establishing a Sports Institute, which he said would serve as a breeding ground for nurturing young talents, promoting physical fitness, and boosting sports tourism in the State.

He further assured that adequate security arrangements have been made to safeguard lives and property throughout the duration of the Games. In addition, the Governor promised government assistance with accommodation and logistics should any shortfall arise during the hosting period.

Governor Mutfwang emphasized that sports remain a veritable tool for fostering peace, unity, and youth development, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to partnering with institutions like the University of Jos to harness the potential of young people through sports and education.

The event featured an inspection of the sporting facilities within the Naraguta Campus, including the football pitch and other infrastructure earmarked for the NUGA Games.

Signed

Tongdyen D. S. Dachung

Principal Assistant Registrar,

For: Head, Information and Publications