On Monday, the streets of Jos buzzed with vibrant hues, lively music, and a surge of sporting enthusiasm as Professor Tanko Ishaya, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos (UNIJOS), guided a dynamic parade involving university leaders, former students, current enrollees, and sports fans. This marked the official start of the buildup to the 27th edition of the Nigerian Universities Games Association (NUGA) Games.
The kickoff included an energetic march along key routes in Jos, transforming the area into a festive prelude to the competition. Attendees wore colorful cultural outfits, moved to rhythmic tunes, and handed out informational leaflets to raise excitement for this landmark occasion—the inaugural NUGA Games to take place in Plateau State.
Remarkably, the usual traffic frustrations faded away, with drivers even pausing to soak in the impromptu spectacle.During the gathering, Professor Ishaya thanked Plateau State’s Governor, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, along with various partners for their unwavering commitment to bringing NUGA 2025 to life. He portrayed the event as a rare chance for advancement, encouraging locals to greet visiting competitors and visitors with genuine warmth beyond mere photo ops.
The Vice-Chancellor noted that the Games are anticipated to draw over 10,000 competitors and personnel from higher education institutions throughout Nigeria. He stressed that maintaining tranquility and a welcoming atmosphere in the state would guarantee the event’s triumph while also enhancing tourism and local commerce well beyond its conclusion.Professor Ishaya further explained that this preparatory phase represents more than just a timeline—it’s an invitation to excellence, a tribute to skill, collaboration, and the resilient ethos of Jos residents.
He motivated participants from the university to strive for their peak performance, highlighting how the results of NUGA 2025 could profoundly impact individuals through each competition, objective, and victory.Adding to the momentum, Professor Taye Obateru, who heads the Publicity Sub-Committee, urged journalists to provide ample spotlight on the proceedings. With zeal, he proclaimed, “Sound the alarms, raise the flags—NUGA UNIJOS 2025 has arrived, and we’re launching it with flair!”
As the procession wrapped up, it became evident that the anticipation wasn’t confined to schedules but had ignited passion across the Plateau community. With tunes echoing, feet in motion, and a sense of accomplishment in every stride, UNIJOS has established an invigorating foundation for what could be the nation’s most thrilling inter-university sports spectacle, blending athletics, heritage, and the region’s renowned climate into a unified experience.
