NUGA 2025: Over 70 Universities Storm Jos for Nigeria’s Biggest Campus Games

JOS, NIGERIA — The 27th Nigerian University Games (NUGA 2025) officially brings together over 70 universities from across the country as the nation’s best student-athletes converge on the University of Jos (UNIJOS) for two weeks of competition, unity, and pride.

The biennial event, which features 23 sporting events, will showcase Nigeria’s next generation of athletes from federal, state, and private universities, capturing the true essence of unity and togetherness that NUGA has stood for since 1966.

National Representation

This year’s NUGA has drawn participation from 74 universities, including giants like the University of Lagos (UNILAG), University of Ibadan (UI), Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ahmadu Bello University (ABU Zaria), and the defending overall champions University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)

Universities from every region are represented:

South-West: UNILAG, UI, LASU, OAU, and Tai Solarin University of Education.

South-South and South-East: UNIPORT, UNIBEN, Abia State University, Michael Okpara University, and UNN Nsukka.

North-West and North-Central: Bayero University Kano, Kaduna State University, ABU Zaria, UNIJOS (host), Nile University and Plateau State University Bokkos.

North-East: University of Maiduguri, Gombe State University, and Taraba State University.

This wide participation shows how university sports continue to unite the nation, bringing together athletes from every corner of Nigeria.

Newcomers and Observers

In addition to the main competitors, 15 observer institutions including the Air Force Institute of Technology (Kaduna), Nigerian Maritime University (Okerenkoko), and Bayelsa Medical University are all attending NUGA 2025 for the first time.

Though they won't be competing for medals, their participation shows the steady growth of university sports in Nigeria, with NUGA opening doors for newly licensed schools to join the league of competitive collegiate institutions in future editions.

Familiar Favorites and Rising Teams

Powerhouses like UNIPORT, UNILAG, and OAU are tipped to dominate once again, while schools such as Lagos State University (LASU), Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), Nile University and Afe Babalola University hope to make strong statements.

For the host, UNIJOS, the Games are more than just a tournament; it's a chance to prove themselves on home soil. “We’re hosting to inspire and to compete,” said UNIJOS Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ishaya Tanko, emphasizing the institution’s ambition to leave a lasting impression on and off the field.

Unity in Competition

Despite challenges in logistics and the recent accommodation controversy, thousands of athletes and officials have arrived in Jos, turning the city into a melting pot of youthful energy. The event’s theme, “Unity Through Sports,” reflects its deeper mission — using sport to bridge regional, ethnic, and institutional divides.

Observers note that this year’s competition could be one of the most competitive yet, as emerging universities challenge traditional sporting giants for podium positions.

A Celebration of Talent and Spirit

Beyond medals, NUGA remains a vital platform for discovering Nigeria’s future stars in athletics, football, basketball, tennis, and boxing many of whom have gone on to represent the country internationally.

As the opening week unfolds, the atmosphere around Jos is buzzing with colour, chants, and anticipation. For student-athletes and fans alike, NUGA 2025 is not just another competition it’s a celebration of youth, resilience, and national pride.