The University of Jos (UNIJOS) has officially flagged off its awareness rally in preparation for the 27th edition of the Nigeria University Games Association (NUGA), scheduled for 2025 a landmark event set to make history as the first-ever NUGA Games to be hosted in North Central Nigeria.
The colorful rally, which commenced at the Hill Station Roundabout in Jos, drew an enthusiastic crowd of students, staff, alumni, and dignitaries, all expressing excitement and solidarity ahead of the much-anticipated event.
Speaking during the rally, the Vice Chancellor of UNIJOS, Prof. Tanko Ishaya, said the exercise marked the official countdown to what he described as a historic and transformative sporting festival. He reaffirmed the university’s full readiness to host the best NUGA Games in the nation’s history.
“We are here to tell the world that UNIJOS is ready. The students, staff, and entire Plateau community are prepared to receive contingents from across Nigeria. We promised the country the best NUGA ever — and we are going to deliver it,” Prof. Ishaya stated.
He also reassured participants and visitors of Jos’s safety, urging Nigerians to disregard negative perceptions about the city.
“As you can see, everyone is out, happy, and excited. Jos is safe, and we are ready to host the nation,” he added.
Prof. Ishaya expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, particularly President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his administration’s commitment to sports and youth development. He noted that UNIJOS had been designated as one of Nigeria’s ten National Centres of Excellence in Sports and has introduced new academic programs in Sports Science, Sports Medicine, and Exercise and Performance Studies to strengthen the country’s sports industry and enhance its contribution to the national economy.
The Vice Chancellor also commended the Plateau State Government, under the leadership of Governor Caleb Mutfwang, for its unwavering support, including financial backing and the provision of facilities to host thousands of athletes and visitors.
“The state government has been very supportive because they understand that hosting over 10,000 visitors will greatly boost the local economy,” he said.
In his remarks, Gad Shamaki Peter, Global President of the UNIJOS Alumni Association, emphasized that sports serve as a powerful tool for unity, peace, and youth empowerment. He expressed optimism that the 27th NUGA Games would not only highlight the potential of Nigerian youths but also project Plateau State positively as a center for development and harmony.
Similarly, Prof. Taye Obateru, Chairman of the Media and Publicity Sub-Committee for NUGA, described the forthcoming games as an opportunity to showcase the peace, hospitality, and vibrant spirit of Jos, while reinforcing UNIJOS’s commitment to talent development and community impact.
“UNIJOS is ready to impact society, develop sports talent, and foster partnerships that will strengthen both sports and business in the state,” he said.
With preparations in top gear and excitement building across campuses nationwide, the 27th NUGA Games at UNIJOS promises to be a historic celebration of sportsmanship, unity, and excellence, positioning Plateau State as a beacon of peace, hospitality, and youth-driven development in Nigeria.