Nnamdi Azikiwe University (Unizik) has secured a prestigious spot to represent Nigeria at the 2026 World University Games, scheduled to take place in Egypt. This qualification was earned through the outstanding performance of the university's athletes at the recent Nigeria University Games (NUGA).
Triumph at the NUGA Games
The pathway to Egypt was paved at the 27th edition of the NUGA Games, hosted by the University of Jos (UNIJOS) and its environs from November 6 to 16, 2025. Unizik sent a strong contingent that competed in eight different events: taekwondo, karate, female football, volleyball, male football, tennis, rowing, and athletics.
It was the university's female football and volleyball teams that shone brightest, finishing among the top three teams in their respective categories. This stellar achievement automatically qualified them for the international stage at the World University Games in Egypt next year.
Vice Chancellor's Reception and Vision
The victorious athletes were received with great honour by the new Vice Chancellor, Professor Ugochukwu Bond Anyaehie, at the Senate Council Chamber on his very first day in office. Professor Anyaehie praised the students, calling them "good ambassadors of the institution."
He emphasized that this qualification would significantly elevate the university's profile. "The performance of Unizik teams will help put the university on the world map of sports, in particular, and education in general," the VC stated. Following the reception, he promised to initiate talent hunt and nurture programs within the university to discover and promote more sporting talents.
Athletes' Grit and Team Spirit
The personal stories from the games were as compelling as the team's success. In a chat with The Guardian, 19-year-old Mary Ogisi, who won a silver medal in taekwondo and a bronze in karate, revealed her motivation. She developed an interest in combat sports to build a defensive mechanism against bullying she experienced while growing up.
Dr. Ikenna Nwokedi, who served as both Match Commissioner and media officer for the contingent, commended the athletes for "giving a good account of themselves," especially after qualifying as representative champions from the South-East zone.
The Director of Sports, Mrs. Tonia Chukwudi, also praised the team for making the institution proud despite facing significant constraints. She highlighted several challenges that tested the team's resilience, including:
- The inclement cold weather of Jos.
- Exhaustion from the long trip from Anambra.
- Injuries to key players.
- Perceived insecurity in the host community.
- Logistical strain from moving between scattered venues.
Despite these hurdles and not winning the overall trophy, Mrs. Chukwudi was optimistic, asserting that "Unizik has a team to beat in the country." She gave the entire contingent a 95 per cent rating for good performance, concluding that "in all, it was a good outing."
