National Assembly Backs NUGA, Promises Support for University Sports Development
Comfort Chukwukelue
The National Assembly has pledged its full support to the Nigeria Universities Games Association (NUGA) as preparations intensify for the 2025 NUGA Games scheduled to take place at the University of Jos.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, gave the assurance through the Chairman of the House Committee on Sports, Hon. Kabiru Amadu. Hon. Amadu, accompanied by the Deputy Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Mohammed Jajere, received the NUGA delegation on Thursday in Abuja and reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to strengthening university sports across the country.
Speaking on behalf of the Speaker, Hon. Amadu said the legislature was ready to collaborate with relevant government agencies to ensure that sports infrastructure in Nigerian universities meets global standards.
“I can assure you that the National Assembly will support your projects. All you need to do is make the formal request and I will personally follow up,” he said. “It is part of our Committee’s plan to ensure that by 2026, every Nigerian university has a functional sports complex or mini stadium capable of hosting international competitions.”
He explained that improving university sports facilities would not only transform the learning environment but also open doors for young athletes to build successful careers in sports
The leader of the NUGA delegation, Mr. Gushen Obey, expressed appreciation for the warm reception by the Speaker and members of the Sports Committee. He said the association’s visit was aimed at deepening its partnership with the legislature ahead of the 27th edition of the NUGA Games, slated for November 6 to 16, 2025, at the University of Jos.
According to Obey, the upcoming Games will feature a record 91 universities and a blend of sporting and cultural activities designed to promote unity and national pride.
“We invited the National Assembly to be part of the closing ceremony to help promote unity and change the narrative about Jos as a city of peace,” he said.
Obey explained that while several facilities at the University of Jos, including the hockey, cricket, and indoor sports halls, have been completed, others are still under construction. He added that the ongoing projects are estimated to cost ₦13 billion.
“Our goal is to keep students engaged through sports because sports unify everyone in Nigeria,” he said. “We want the National Assembly to help us complete these facilities so the university can host international competitions. We also want to start exporting Nigerian sports talent to the world and give our youth something to look forward to.”
The delegation expressed optimism that with legislative backing, the 2025 NUGA Games will set a new benchmark for university sports in Nigeria.
