The University of Calabar (UNICAL) is set to host the 28th edition of the National University Games Association (NUGA) from November 14 to November 24, 2026. Organizers have announced that no fewer than 50,000 athletes from 50 universities across Nigeria will participate in the event.
UNICAL Vice Chancellor Assures Readiness
Prof. Offiong Offiong, Vice Chancellor of UNICAL, briefed the media in Calabar on the university's preparedness. He stated that the institution is ready to deliver the most memorable NUGA Games ever. “We are fully prepared to host one of the best NUGA games in history. This media parley is to tell the world that we are ready,” he said.
The Vice Chancellor emphasized that the games would be conducted with integrity, excellence, and decency, reflecting the values of fair play, respect, and camaraderie that NUGA stands for. He noted that world-class facilities, including an indoor sports hall, are being put in place. “This university last hosted the games in 1990, where I competed in judo,” he added.
Security and Economic Impact
Prof. Offiong described Cross River State as the most peaceful in Nigeria and assured that the university is working closely with the state government and security agencies to ensure adequate safety for athletes, officials, and visitors throughout the games. He thanked the Nigerian Government, the National Sports Commission, and the Ministry of Education for their support.
He also commended President Bola Tinubu for promoting sports and Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, for supporting the university. “The state government has been very supportive because they know hosting over 50,000 visitors will significantly boost the local economy,” he noted.
Sports and Significance
The Vice Chancellor highlighted that the games would showcase the potential of Nigerian youths, change the narrative about Cross River, and drive infrastructural and social development. The approved sports include rugby, tennis, table tennis, athletics, badminton, basketball, chess, cricket, handball, judo, taekwondo, scrabble, swimming, football, volleyball, hockey, boxing, e-sports, rowing, yachting, karate, beach volleyball, and squash.
The briefing was attended by the Chief Executive of Builders Consultants Limited and UNICAL 2026 NUGA Games Consultant, Engr. Jorge Etibeng, and members of the University of Calabar Sports Council.
