NUGA: WHERE NIGERIA’S FUTURE STARS ARE FORGED

Since 1966, the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) has been more than just a sports competition; it has been the birthplace of countless athletic dreams. Inspired by the West African University Games (WAUG) of 1965, the first NUGA Games brought together only five universities. Today, that humble beginning has grown into a nationwide sporting festival uniting more than 80 institutions: federal, state, and private, across Nigeria.

Beyond the medals and glory, NUGA’s core mission has always been clear: to forge tomorrow’s champions and showcase the power of university sports as a platform for national development.

The Alumni Hall of Fame: Where Legends Begin

Many of Nigeria’s sporting legends first made their mark at NUGA. The Games have consistently served as a proving ground for student-athletes who later rose to national and international prominence.

Among NUGA’s illustrious alumni are:

Vincent Enyeama (Football): The Super Eagles legend and Africa Cup of Nations winner first displayed his safe hands representing the University of Uyo.

Olusoji Fasuba (Athletics): An Obafemi Awolowo University alumnus who won 100m gold at NUGA before anchoring Nigeria’s Olympic bronze relay team and becoming Africa’s current 100m record holder.

Olabisi “Bisi” Afolabi (Athletics): The University of Ilorin graduate and Atlanta 1996 Olympic silver medallist honed her talent through the University Games.

Olumide Oyedeji (Basketball): A former NBA player and captain of Nigeria’s national basketball team, who represented Obafemi Awolowo University at the 1997 NUGA Games.

Chika Chukwumerije (Taekwondo): The Olympic bronze medallist began his journey representing FUTO, winning gold in both the 2002 and 2004 editions.

Olasubomi Ogundele (Football): The former UNILAG Marine Angels striker and NUGA MVP whose success led to her professional debut with Remo Stars Ladies.

These athletes are proof of what NUGA has always stood for: opportunity, discovery, and transformation.

The Reigning Dynasty: University of Port Harcourt’s Dominance

In the world of Nigerian university sports, one name stands tall: the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT). With nine overall titles, including the last four editions: UNIBEN 2011, OAU 2014, UAM 2017, and UNILAG 2022, UNIPORT has become the undisputed powerhouse of NUGA.

The institution famously set a record in 2017, amassing an astonishing 70 gold medals in Makurdi. Their dominance has turned them into the benchmark for excellence and consistency in Nigerian university sports.

The Road to UNIJOS 2025

All eyes now turn to the next chapter of NUGA’s storied legacy, the 27th edition, set to take place at the University of Jos (UNIJOS), Plateau State, from November 5 to 16, 2025.

The organisers have confirmed the dates to allow ample time for infrastructure upgrades, ensuring a world-class experience for athletes, officials, and fans. As anticipation builds, Nigeria’s campuses are already buzzing with renewed energy, training sessions, and team selections, each institution dreaming of victory in Jos.

A Legacy That Endures

From its modest beginnings with five institutions to a nationwide celebration of athletic excellence, NUGA remains a cornerstone of Nigerian sports. It is where rivalries are born, friendships are forged, and the next generation of national heroes takes its first leap.

The Nigerian University Games is a biennial event that is also the enduring heart of Nigerian university sports.