by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
University of Jos says it stands proud as the host of the historic edition of the 27th Nigerian University Games (NUGA), which has brought together 81 universities from across the country, with over 70,800 student-athletes and 2,715 officials.
This marks the highest number of participants in the history of NUGA, and it is a testament to how far they have come as a community. From the beginning, when it started with only five member institutions, NUGA has grown into a vibrant family of more than 120 active members.
Speaking during the opening ceremony at the University of Jos on Saturday, the Plateau State Governor, Barr Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, stated that, “I am confident that all athletes will compete lawfully, fairly, and in a manner that reflects our shared humanity.”
He encouraged all participants to take advantage of the pleasant weather on the Plateau, saying, “You will not be beaten by the sun, and I am sure many of you will leave looking brighter than when you arrived.
“Beyond the competition, I also hope you savour the unique Plateau cuisine and enjoy the warmth of our hospitality,” he noted, while urging them all to do their best and represent their various institutions with dignity and honour.
“Let every medal you win bring pride to you, your family, and your university. Do not misuse your stay here or acquire medals in dishonour. Compete with integrity; play fair, and let your achievements reflect the true spirit of sportsmanship,” he cautioned.
The governor further stated thus: “I am confident that the friendships you build here will go beyond the Games and become valuable networks in your future endeavours.”
He commended the management of the University of Jos and the Local Organising Committee for their dedication and hard work in making the event a reality. “My appreciation also goes to all our sponsors and partners for their support,” he added.
Gov Mutfwang emphasized that, “To the security agencies and the Plateau State security architecture, I thank you for ensuring a peaceful and secure environment for our guests and participants. By God’s grace, I assure everyone that you can go about your activities without fear, intimidation, or apprehension. As you arrived safely, so shall you return to your various destinations safely.”
The governor stressed that, “The great Nigerian students, who have come from various universities across the country to participate in these games – much has already been said about the importance of this gathering: that, it is one which promotes unity, collaboration, and harmony, even as we continue to sharpen our intellects.”
Also, the Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who declared the 27th NUGA, said “The contingents from federal and state universities across the country, hosting a competition of this magnitude demands conviction – conviction that investing in young people is a worthwhile venture that yields dividends far beyond any spreadsheet can capture.
“It is, indeed, a profound honour to be here at the University of Jos, a revered institution founded on resilience, excellence, and intellectual growth.”
According to him, “Jos, which is often called the Home of Peace and Tourism, has for decades nurtured minds and shaped the character of countless Nigerians, including my Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, CON, who is an alumnus of this great university.
“The University of Jos was established during challenging times in our nation’s history. Yet, it has maintained its enviable standards – today standing tall as the proud host of the 27th edition of NUGA.
Governor Aiyedatiwa also noted that, “What makes this university truly unique is its location at the crossroads of Nigeria – geographically and culturally, the diversity that defines its campus life mirrors our nation’s own diversity and represents the peaceful coexistence we all desire for our country.”
While commending the Federal Government, through TETFund, for its vital support in making the event possible, he added that, “We also acknowledge development partners whose contributions continue to strengthen our higher institutions.”
He equally appreciated the Governor of Plateau State for the financial, logistical, and moral support that has created an enabling environment for the tournament.
“From the airport to the streets of Jos, I was impressed by the peaceful atmosphere and clean environment – your sweepers are doing an excellent job,” he stated.
“The collaboration between the Plateau State Government and the University of Jos is exemplary. It is important to note that we are gathered here not just for a sporting competition, but for a powerful demonstration of the Nigerian spirit,” he noted.
The Ondo Governor further stated that, “When young men and women, irrespective of tribe, tongue, or faith, compete on the field and on the court, we witness national unity in its purest and most beautiful form.
“University Games, such as NUGA, are the golden threads that weave together the diverse fabric of our country. They teach us that success is earned through merit; that rules apply equally to all, and that respect is the foundation of both rivalry and friendship.”
According to him, “Navigating the complexities of governance in a country with over 250 ethnic groups and more than 500 indigenous languages is not an easy task, but our diversity remains our greatest strength.
“Events like this provide spaces where young Nigerians meet – not as representatives of competing ethnic groups, but as students united by shared dreams and aspirations.
“These games align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of our President and Commander-in-Chief, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which focuses on investing in the youth, securing their future, and removing barriers to their progress.
“The Student Loan Programme introduced under this administration ensures that no Nigerian student is denied education due to financial hardship. While the government invests in your academic pursuits, these games complement that effort by building your physical strength, mental resilience, and leadership capacity. Through sports, we are nurturing a generation of focused and globally-competitive Nigerians.
“To our athletes, you are ambassadors of your universities and a source of pride to your families. Compete with passion, but also with integrity. Let fairness guide your actions and sportsmanship define your legacy. Compete lawfully and remember that your ‘opponents’ are fellow students, Nigerians, and future colleagues,” he noted.
He charged them to reject any temptation to cheat or use performance-enhancing drugs, adding, “Respect officials and always remember that you are students first. With discipline and good time management, balance between academics and sports is achievable.
“As I look around this stadium, I am filled with pride and optimism – pride because this tournament shows what is possible when we invest in youth development, and optimism because events like this must become the norm in the Nigeria we are building.
“In Ondo State, our administration continues to invest in youth development through skill acquisition and sports. Only recently, we launched the Odatiwa Unity Football Competition across all 18 local government areas to engage young people productively and steer them away from social vices.
“As a nation, we need a comprehensive sports development strategy that extends beyond major events – one that starts from grassroots, nurturing talents from primary schools through universities to international levels. This is how we will build a sustainable sporting culture and a stronger nation.
“As these games unfold, I encourage everyone to reflect on their deeper meaning. They show the best of Nigeria – a nation where diversity is strength, merit is rewarded, and young people have the opportunity to thrive.
“May this tournament produce thrilling contests, exceptional performances, and enduring friendships. May it strengthen our bonds of unity and inspire us to work towards the Nigeria of our dreams – one where merit is celebrated and diversity embraced,” he stressed.
Speaking earlier, Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, Prof Tanko Ishaya, said “This edition brings together over 10,000 athletes and officials from 91 participating universities across Nigeria, with an additional 15 observer institutions and millions of viewers, following the event across the country and beyond.
“This massive participation makes the 27th edition of NUGA truly the biggest and most inclusive in history,” adding that for them at the University of Jos, “hosting NUGA is an honour, a privilege, and a responsibility.
“It is an affirmation of the confidence reposed in our institution by the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) and, by extension, the entire Nigerian university system.
“Since its inception, in 1966, NUGA has remained the most prestigious university sporting event in Nigeria, a platform that builds bridges across regions, fosters unity, and empowers young people through the values of sports, discipline, teamwork, integrity, and resilience. These values are at the heart of what we do at the University of Jos,” he said.
The VC added that, “The theme of this year’s Games, ‘Unite, Play, and Peace,’ could not have been more fitting. Plateau State, the Home of Peace and Tourism, provides the perfect atmosphere for friendship, competition, and celebration – all bound by our shared desire for peace and progress.
“Our Local Organising Committee worked tirelessly, day-and-night, to mobilize human, financial, and material resources to make this event possible. Through their dedication, we have upgraded and expanded our sporting facilities to *world-class standards,* providing an enabling environment for athletes to showcase their talents at the highest level.
“We have also put in place all necessary arrangements to ensure the **safety, comfort, and security** of all participants and visitors. The University has worked closely with the **Plateau State Government,** the **Nigeria Police Force,** the **Armed Forces,** the **Department of State Services,** and other agencies to provide comprehensive security coverage throughout the Games. Plateau remains one of the safest and most welcoming states in Nigeria – and we are proud of our reputation for warmth and hospitality.
“Indeed, Plateau State’s **cool, temperate climate, lush green landscape, and breathtaking scenery** offer a uniquely refreshing experience. For many, who are visiting Jos for the first time, we say, *Welcome to a city you may never want to leave.* This is the Plateau charm – peaceful, welcoming, and naturally beautiful,” he stated.
The VC further appreciated the Plateau State Government, under Governor Caleb Mutfwang, for the tremendous support extended to the university throughout the preparations, saying, “Your personal visits to inspect our facilities and your commitment to the success of NUGA 2025 have greatly encouraged us.”
He also appreciated the Federal Government of Nigeria, particularly the Federal Ministries of Education and Sports, the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), the National Sports Commission, and the games corporate sponsors and partners for their overwhelming collaboration and sponsorship “in making this dream a reality.”
He charged the athletes, thus: “As you have trained hard, you persevered, and now the spotlight is yours. Compete with passion, with focus and, above all, with integrity.
“Remember, Gold may not always shine, but character shines brighter. Profiles may matter, but teamwork matters more. Winning is beautiful, but sportsmanship is legendary.
“At NUGA, we do not just compete to beat one another – we compete to be better, together. Let this be your guiding spirit throughout the Games. Whether you win or lose, let your performance reflect discipline, respect, and excellence.
“True champions are not only defined by medals, but by the values they uphold, the friendships they form and the **memories they create,” he said. The President of NUGA encouraged all participants to compete in the true spirit of fair play, respect, and camaraderie, and to uphold the values that make university sports a “symbol of hope and excellence in Nigeria.”