UNIJOS VC Endorses Keystone Bank as Official Partner for NUGA Games, Commends Bank’s Support for University Development

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos, Professor Tanko Ishaya, has endorsed Keystone Bank as one of the official financial partners for the forthcoming Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) competition, scheduled to take place at the University of Jos from 6^th to 16^th October 2025.

Speaking during a courtesy visit led by the Regional Head of Keystone Bank, Abuja and North Central Zone, the Vice-Chancellor expressed the University’s profound gratitude to the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Keystone Bank for choosing to be part of the institution’s success story.

Professor Ishaya described the visit as timely and strategic, coming at a period when the University is preparing to host over 10,000 contingents from various universities across the country for the 2025 NUGA Games. He emphasized that sports have evolved into a thriving global industry with immense potential for youth empowerment and national development.
According to him, “The University of Jos is determined to tap into this industry by integrating sports as part of its academic and developmental agenda.”

The Vice-Chancellor further noted that Plateau State possesses a comparative advantage in sports development due to its favorable weather, climate, and topography, which make it ideal for training athletes. He expressed optimism that once the ongoing sports facilities are completed, Jos would once again reclaim its reputation as a hub for sports excellence in Nigeria.

Professor Ishaya also highlighted that the Federal Government has recognized the growing importance of sports in national development and is supporting universities to harness the talents of Nigerian youths through curriculum-based sports education. He disclosed that the University of Jos has already developed a curriculum integrating sports management and related disciplines, aimed at producing future sports professionals.

Earlier in his remarks, the Regional Head of Keystone Bank for Abuja and the North Central Zone, Mr Bala Umaru, stated that the bank’s delegation visited UNIJOS as part of its commitment to supporting the NUGA Games and strengthening its partnership with the University. He revealed that Keystone Bank intends to continue working with the institution beyond the Games, particularly in automating revenue collection to enhance financial transparency and efficiency.

According to him, the bank is also interested in optimizing the University’s online payment platforms and portals, while providing a range of financial solutions to support institutional growth. He added that Keystone Bank is prepared to offer what he described as “School Support Loans, Asset Financing, Project Financing, and Digital Solutions” to help the University achieve its infrastructural and developmental goals.

In addition, the bank plans to organize training sessions for contingents participating in the NUGA Games as part of its contribution to youth capacity building. The Regional Head assured the Vice-Chancellor that Keystone Bank remains committed to supporting educational institutions through innovative financial services and strategic collaborations.

The visit, which marks another milestone in the growing partnership between the University of Jos and Keystone Bank, ended on a note of optimism as both parties expressed their commitment to sustaining the collaboration for mutual growth and national development.

Signed

Tongdyen D.S. Dachung

Principal Assistant Registrar

(Information and Publications )

For: Registrar