One of the largest sporting events in Nigeria’s tertiary education sector
By Frank Ulom
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Published on June 19, 2026
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2 min read
The University of Calabar, UNICAL, has announced November 14 to 24, 2026, as the tentative dates for hosting the 28th edition of the Nigeria Universities Games Association (NUGA) Games.
According to Negroid Haven, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Offiong Offiong, disclosed this on Thursday during a stakeholders’ engagement meeting on preparations for the national university sports festival, expressing confidence in the institution’s readiness to host athletes and officials from universities across the country.
He described the Games as one of the largest sporting events in Nigeria’s tertiary education sector, noting that UNICAL was committed to delivering a memorable competition that would promote excellence, sportsmanship and national unity.
According to the Vice-Chancellor, preparations for the Games are already underway, with the university working closely with the NUGA Council, the Cross River State Government and other stakeholders to ensure a successful hosting.
Prof. Offiong said the institution was also upgrading its sporting facilities and strengthening organisational structures to meet the standards required for the national event.
He called on corporate organisations, alumni, development partners and well-meaning individuals to support the university’s preparations, stressing that hosting the Games would require collective commitment and investment.
The Vice Chancellor noted that beyond the sporting competition, the event would provide an opportunity to showcase the University’s capacity, promote Cross River State’s tourism potential and leave lasting sports infrastructure for future generations of students.
He also expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, the Cross River State Government, the NUGA Council and members of the university community for their support, urging all stakeholders to work together to ensure the successful hosting of the Games.
The Nigeria Universities Games Association Games is Nigeria’s premier inter-university sporting competition, bringing together thousands of student-athletes from universities across the country to compete in various sporting events.
