The Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, Professor Tanko Ishaya, has reaffirmed the institution’s readiness to host the 26th Nigeria University Games Association (NUGA) Championship, scheduled for November 6–16, 2025.
Speaking at a strategic stakeholders’ meeting held Tuesday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, Ishaya—represented by Abaji Adankala—disclosed that preparations are already 90% complete. He expressed confidence in the university’s ability to deliver a world-class event.
“We are confident in our capacity to successfully host this national event,” Ishaya said. “Our consulting and organizing teams have shown exceptional readiness, and we are determined to meet both national and international standards.”
He noted that logistics, sporting infrastructure, and stakeholder coordination are progressing well and have exceeded expectations.
The meeting also served as a formal presentation of the event’s strategic roadmap. It drew representatives from key agencies, including the National Sports Commission, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Nigeria Police Force, and the Federal Road Safety Corps, all pledging support to ensure a secure and seamless tournament.
Khalifah Onu, Group Chairman of Royal CBS, described the upcoming games as a “transformational event” with strong strategic backing and presidential support. He praised President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to youth development and emphasized the games’ potential to launch the careers of aspiring athletes.
“NUGA 2025 is more than a sporting competition,” Onu said. “It’s a platform for peace, empowerment, and opportunity. We aim to inspire and elevate Nigerian youth through sport.”
Onu also encouraged participating universities to embrace the games with discipline and excellence, stressing that this edition could be a gateway to global opportunities for many young athletes.
Ataboh Shehu, Group Director-General of Royal CBS, echoed this vision and outlined a long-term plan to develop Nigeria’s sports talent pipeline. He emphasized the need to build systems modeled on successful international frameworks—where student-athletes receive scholarships, mentorship, and career support.
Shehu said the goal is to create a sustainable ecosystem that will not only boost Nigeria’s presence on the global sports stage but also empower future generations through education and athletics.