No fewer than 50,000 athletes from over 50 universities will participate in the 2026 Nigeria Universities Games Association (NUGA) Games. The University of Calabar (UniCal) will host this event.
The university’s Vice-Chancellor, Offiong Offiong, shared this news at a press conference on Thursday in Calabar.
The 28th edition of this biennial sporting event is set to run from 14 November to 24 November.
The vice-chancellor noted that athletes will compete in 28 different sports during the games.
He expressed that the university is ready to host the competition. He sees it as a chance to promote academic and sports excellence while bringing unity among Nigerian universities.
"I assure you that the University of Calabar is fully prepared to deliver a memorable event anchored on integrity, fairness and sportsmanship," said Mr Offiong, who is a professor.
On security, the vice-chancellor mentioned that the university is working with security agencies to ensure a smooth competition.
He added that even though Calabar is one of the safest cities in Nigeria, they are putting enough measures in place to guarantee the safety of everyone involved.
Mr Offiong called on stakeholders, including the government, companies, alumni, and development partners, to help make the games a success.
He praised the Cross River Government for its ongoing support and partnership in organizing this sporting festival.
The vice-chancellor also highlighted the media's role in getting public support and raising awareness for the upcoming games.
He pointed out that hosting the event will speed up the development of modern and durable sports facilities on the university campus.
Mr Offiong urged the NUGA Council to keep providing guidance and cooperation as preparations continue for the competition. He mentioned that the university plans to build a sports complex as a lasting project for the 2026 games.
He believes this project will serve as a lasting reminder of the event and help in developing future national and international sports stars.
NAN reports that the NUGA Games started in 1966 at the University of Ibadan, while UniCal last hosted the games in 1990.
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