Sports: Unical Awarded Hosting Right for 28th NUGA Games, Signs MoA Ahead of August 2026
State Correspondent
The University of Calabar (UNICAL) has been officially confirmed as host of the 28th edition of the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA), marking a major milestone in preparations for the country’s premier inter-university sporting event.
The Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, formally received the NUGA hosting flag and signed the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA), thereby granting UNICAL the official mandate to host the Games.
The flag handover and MoA signing ceremony took place during a courtesy visit by the NUGA Games Committee, led by the Chairman of UNICAL NUGA Games 2026, Prof. Lukas Ogunjimi. The visit symbolised the formal transfer of hosting responsibilities and the commencement of full-scale preparations for the Games.
Speaking at the event, Prof. Offiong assured the delegation of the University’s unwavering commitment to delivering what he described as “the best NUGA Games ever.” He highlighted Calabar’s long-standing reputation as a peaceful, hospitable, and culturally rich city, noting that the serene environment would enhance the overall experience for athletes, officials, and visitors.
“With the support of the Cross River State Government as Chief Host, we are fully prepared to stage a Games that will set new standards in organisation, competition, and hospitality,” the Vice-Chancellor stated.
Preparations are already underway ahead of the Games, which are scheduled to take place in August 2026. UNICAL is positioning itself to deliver not only a highly competitive sporting fiesta but also a vibrant cultural showcase reflective of the state’s tourism appeal.
The NUGA Games bring together student-athletes from universities across Nigeria, fostering unity, sportsmanship, and talent development. The last edition of the Games was hosted by the University of Jos, where over 90 universities from across the country participated in the championships.
With the hosting rights now officially secured, expectations are high as the University of Calabar prepares to welcome Nigeria’s academic and sporting community for what promises to be a memorable edition of the NUGA Games.
Source: The Blinkers Magazine
Credit: By Ado Salisu, Kano
