More than 50,000 athletes from over 50 universities across Nigeria are expected to participate in the 2026 Nigeria Universities Games Association (NUGA) Games, hosted by the University of Calabar (UniCal).
The Vice-Chancellor of UniCal, Prof. Offiong Offiong, announced this at a news conference in Calabar.
The 28th edition of the biennial event is scheduled for November 14 to 24. Athletes will compete in 28 sports during the Games.
Prof. Offiong expressed the university’s readiness to host the event, emphasizing it as a platform for promoting academic and athletic excellence and fostering unity among Nigerian universities.
“The games will promote excellence and strengthen unity among Nigerian universities. UniCal is fully prepared to deliver a memorable event rooted in integrity, fairness, and sportsmanship,” he stated.
Regarding security, he said the university is working with relevant agencies to ensure a smooth competition. While Calabar remains one of Nigeria’s most peaceful cities, measures are in place to guarantee the safety of participants and visitors.
Offiong called on stakeholders—including government, corporate bodies, alumni, and development partners—to support the successful hosting of the Games.
He commended the Cross River Government for its ongoing support and partnership.
The vice-chancellor highlighted the importance of media in mobilizing support and increasing visibility for the event.
He also noted that hosting the Games would accelerate the development of modern sports facilities on campus and announced plans to build a sports complex as a legacy project, which would serve as a lasting reminder of the event and help develop future sporting champions.
Historically, the NUGA Games were first hosted by the University of Ibadan in 1966, with UniCal last hosting in 1990.
