The University of Jos has taken its turn to host the 27th edition of the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA), an event that continues to promote unity, discipline, and youth development through sports.
This year’s Games, held under the theme “Unite, Play in Peace,”bring together athletes and officials from across the country to celebrate competition and cooperation in equal measure.
The opening ceremony, held at the UNIJOS Sports Complex, attracted over 10,000 athletes, officials, and guests from 91 universities nationwide. The occasion featured a parade of contingents, the lighting of the NUGA torch, and the national anthem — symbols of unity and the start of two weeks of competition.
Declaring the Games open, Ondo State Governor Dr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa commended the University of Jos and Plateau State Government for hosting what he called “a strong expression of the Nigerian spirit.”
He said university games go beyond physical contests, describing them as a platform where young people learn teamwork, resilience, and respect for diversity.
“When we see young men and women, irrespective of tribe, tongue, or creed, competing on the field, we witness national unity in its purest and most beautiful form,” Aiyedatiwa said.
The governor also drew a link between the ideals of NUGA and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, saying education and sports remain vital tools for youth empowerment and national renewal.
He urged the athletes to compete honourably and avoid practices that undermine the values of fair play.
Plateau State Governor Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, who served as Chief Host, welcomed participants to the state and assured them of a peaceful and friendly atmosphere.
“Compete lawfully, compete fairly, and compete in a way that shows our humanity. Take advantage of the good weather here and do your best to represent your institutions with honour,” Mutfwang said.
Similarly, The President of NUGA, Professor Bawa Mohammed, described the Jos edition as the largest in the association’s history, featuring 81 universities, 7,800 athletes, and over 2000 officials competing in 23 sports, including football, athletics, basketball, volleyball, and swimming.
He commended the University of Jos for its organisation and acknowledged the support of sponsors and stakeholders in sustaining the Games over the years.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos, Professor Ishaya Tanko, said hosting NUGA was both an honour and a responsibility for the institution.
“Hosting NUGA affirms the confidence reposed in our university by the Nigerian University Games Association and by the Nigerian university system,” he noted.
Tanko added that the university had upgraded its sports facilities and strengthened security arrangements to ensure a smooth competition.
The ceremony featured cultural performances, a parade of athletes, and other displays highlighting the diversity and energy of Nigeria’s university community.As the Games progress, thousands of students from across the country are expected to compete for honours, build friendships, and promote the event’s theme — Unite, Play in Peace.
