The University of Jos is set to introduce over ten new academic programs in Sports Education, as part of its plan to establish a comprehensive Sports Institute. The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tanko Ishaya, revealed that the new programs would include Sports Marketing, Sports Medicine, Sports Psychology, Sports Journalism, Sports Law, and Sports Management, among others.
Speaking about the initiative, Professor Ishaya explained that the Sports Institute aims to become a hub for training the next generation of sports professionals in Nigeria. He highlighted that the project goes beyond establishing a Sports Center, envisioning it as a means to restore Plateau State’s sporting glory and cultivate Nigerian professional players.
The announcement came during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the University of Jos and Belgush Royal Promotions, a Sports, Entertainment, and Media Management firm. The partnership will focus on hosting the National University Games Association (NUGA) and developing a world-class Sports Institute within the University.
As part of the collaboration, the University will also partner with the National Sports University of Korea to leverage their expertise for the new Sports Institute. Professor Ishaya noted that these initiatives are designed to fill a critical gap in Nigeria’s Sports Education landscape, as no Nigerian university currently offers such specialized courses. He further emphasized the unique advantage of Jos’ climate for nurturing young athletes and the University’s strategic focus on long-term academic excellence.
The Vice-Chancellor expressed gratitude to Belgush Royal Promotions for their resilience in overcoming challenges to ensure the partnership’s success. He commended the shared vision of both organizations and reaffirmed their commitment to achieving lasting results.
Professor Ishaya also revealed ongoing discussions with the National Sports Commission, led by Director-General Mallam Shehu Dikko, to secure further support for hosting the NUGA festival and establishing the Sports Institute. He emphasized that these collaborations would bring significant value to the University’s goals and contribute to the long-term development of its academic and sporting programs.
Chief Obed Gushem, Chairman of Belgush Royal Promotions, praised the University’s forward-thinking initiative and noted the opportunities it would create in discovering and nurturing talents. He acknowledged the University’s commitment and applauded the diligence of its staff and students in overcoming challenges.
Mallam Mainasara Illo, a Director at Belgush Royal Promotions, described Plateau State as an ideal location for national sports events. He pledged the company’s resources and manpower to ensure the NUGA festival at the University would be the best in history.
Dr. Ladan Salihu, a former Director-General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, highlighted the importance of the partnership in positioning the University as a leader in Sports Education and development. He expressed confidence that hosting NUGA would enable young athletes to showcase their talents and contribute to Nigeria’s sports legacy.
The highlight of the event was the formal signing of the MOU, witnessed by members of the University Management, the NUGA Local Organizing Committee, the University’s Sports Committee, and representatives of Belgush Royal Promotions.
