The Federal Government has pledged one billion Naira to Jos University aimed at completing it various sports facilities.
The NUGA’s chairman technical committee, Professor Musa Garba Yakasai dropped this hints at the opening ceremony of the games on Saturday 8 November.
The NUGA games attracted dignitaries include Governor of Plateau state, Caleb Mutfwang and his counterpart from Ondo, Lucky Aiyeatiwa.
According to the chairman, the fund will be release through the TETFUND as part of the federal ministry of education commitment towards the overall development of sports in the country.
Professor Musa Garba Yakasai AA who doubles as the Chairman, Sports Committee of Bayero University Kano BUK commended the President Bola Ahmad Tinubu, the minister of education and National Sports Commission NSC led by Shehu Dikko and other major partners for their unwavering support financially and morally towards actualize the set objectives.
”On behalf of NUGA executive members, we really appreciate the Plateau state Governor and others state governments for rescuing and supporting the Jos University and NUGA respectively,” he added.
The chairman, however, called on the participants to abide by the rules and regulations governing championships towards the smooth and hitch free games.
The chairman warned that the organisers will condole indiscipline capable of tarnishing the good image of the games.
Professor Musa Garba Yakasai then announced that the best athletes would be selected ahead of the next edition of World University games.
Themed “Unity, Play in Peace,” the event brings together 4,181 athletes from universities across Nigeria to compete in 23 sports disciplines, including athletics, football, basketball, volleyball, swimming, and e-sports.
The opening ceremony, held at the J.T. Useni Stadium, saw a colourful display of cultural performances, marching contingents, and the official lighting of the NUGA torch, setting the tone for what promises to be an unforgettable festival of sports.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth development through sports.
Mr Mutfwang highlighted the state’s investments in upgrading facilities, including the stadium fence, tartan track, and pavilion, while assuring full logistical and security support throughout the Games.
Sports are a powerful instrument for peace, unity, and youth development. We will do everything possible to make these Games a resounding success,” he said.
He further directed the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development to temporarily relocate to the Games Village to ensure real-time coordination.
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos, Ishaya Tanko, emphasised the university’s resolve not just to host the Games, but to set new benchmarks and showcase emerging talent.
“We are hosting to win, to celebrate new talent, and to demonstrate the power of sports to unite young people from every
Student-athletes began arriving on November 6, preparing to camp in the university hostels ahead of the opening, while over 1,000 volunteers, 67 media personnel, and 193 observing athletes from newly registered universities contribute to the organisation of the Games.
The UNIJOS 2025 Games will run until November 16, showcasing not only Nigeria’s sporting prowess but also the unifying spirit of its youth.
