The University of Calabar (UNICAL) has announced plans to host the 28th edition of the Nigeria Universities Games Association (NUGA) Games from November 14 to 24, 2026, with about 50 universities and an estimated 50,000 athletes expected to participate in the prestigious sporting event.
Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Offiong E. Offiong, disclosed this during a press conference in Calabar, describing the games as a major opportunity to promote sporting excellence, youth development and national unity.
Prof. Offiong said the University of Calabar is fully prepared to welcome athletes, officials, spectators and other stakeholders from across Nigeria and beyond for the competition.
He noted that the event would provide a platform for showcasing the institution’s commitment to academic and athletic excellence while strengthening relationships among Nigerian universities.
The Vice Chancellor assured that all necessary arrangements were being put in place to ensure a successful championship that would reflect the values of sportsmanship, integrity, fair play and camaraderie associated with NUGA.
He further disclosed that the university was collaborating with relevant security agencies and stakeholders to guarantee maximum security throughout the games.
According to him, the successful hosting of the event requires collective effort, prompting the university to engage the Cross River State Government, corporate organizations, political office holders, development partners and the University of Calabar Alumni Association.
Prof. Offiong commended the Cross River State Government for its support, describing it as a dependable partner in the university’s preparations for the national sporting festival.
He also emphasized the critical role of the media in creating awareness, mobilizing public support and generating enthusiasm ahead of the games.
The Vice Chancellor called on stakeholders to contribute financially, logistically, advisory-wise and through promotional support to ensure the success of the competition.
Beyond the sporting activities, he said NUGA 2026 would serve as a catalyst for the development of modern and durable sports infrastructure within the university campus.
He explained that the institution intends to establish state-of-the-art sporting facilities that would continue to benefit students and the wider community long after the games, while helping to nurture future national and international sports stars.
Prof. Offiong expressed confidence that with effective planning, collaboration and stakeholder support, the 28th NUGA Games would leave a lasting legacy for university sports development in Nigeria and further position the University of Calabar as a centre of excellence in sports and education.
By Kingsley Agim
