27th NUGA Games Open in Jos Amid Colour, Excitement, Message of Unity
The 27th edition of the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) Games officially kicked off on Saturday at the University of Jos (UNIJOS), marking the beginning of a week-long festival of sportsmanship, culture, and national unity among Nigerian students.
With the theme “Unity, Play in Peace,” this year’s event has drawn an impressive 4,181 athletes from universities across the country who will compete in 23 different sporting disciplines, including athletics, football, basketball, volleyball, swimming, table tennis, and the fast-growing category of e-sports.
The opening ceremony, held at the J.T. Useni Stadium, was a colourful spectacle featuring vibrant cultural performances, choreographed displays, and the traditional march past of participating universities.
The highlight of the event was the lighting of the NUGA Torch of Unity, symbolizing sportsmanship, peace, and the enduring spirit of Nigerian youth.
Declaring the Games open, the Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, commended the University of Jos for hosting the event and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting youth engagement through sports.
“Sports remain a powerful tool for unity and character development. Plateau State is proud to host this historic event and to welcome students from across Nigeria to a city known for peace and hospitality,” Governor Mutfwang said.
He noted that the NUGA Games align with his government’s broader agenda of fostering social cohesion and creating opportunities for young people to excel beyond the classroom.
Also speaking, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos, Prof. Tanko Ishaya, expressed gratitude to the NUGA Council and partner institutions for entrusting UNIJOS with the hosting rights, assuring that the university was fully prepared to deliver a world-class tournament.
“The University of Jos is honoured to host the 27th edition of the NUGA Games. We have worked tirelessly to ensure the facilities, logistics, and security arrangements meet national standards. This event is not just about winning medals but about building friendships and celebrating the Nigerian spirit,” Prof. Ishaya said.
The President of NUGA, Prof. Stephen Hamafyelto, described the Jos Games as a “renewal of hope” for youth sports development in Nigeria, noting that many athletes discovered at NUGA have gone on to represent the country at continental and global competitions, including the Olympics.
The parade of universities featured colourful displays of tradition and creativity, with contingents showcasing their institutional pride through chants, dances, and coordinated performances.
Security agencies, health workers, and volunteers were stationed across event venues to ensure the smooth running of the games, which will continue through the week.
As the torch blazed and fireworks lit the Jos skyline, excitement filled the air a fitting start to what promises to be an exhilarating and unifying experience for Nigerian students.
The 27th NUGA Games will run through Saturday, November 15, with medal ceremonies and closing festivities scheduled to cap off one of the most anticipated university sports events in recent years.
