The University of Calabar (UNICAL) has assured athletes, officials and visitors of a world-class sporting experience, ahead of the 28th edition of the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) in November 2026.
The Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Offiong Effanga Offiong, said the institution was collaborating with key stakeholders to host a memorable competition geared towards sports excellence, national unity and youth development.
Professor Offiong hinted that preparations were at an advanced stage to host more than 50,000 athletes, including officials and visitors from 50 federal and state-owned universities across Nigeria in from November 14th – 24th.
“We are prepared to deliver an unforgettable experience that reflects the values of fair play, respect and sportsmanship that NUGA represents,” Offiong stated.
According to him, UNICAL was also partnering with the Cross River State Government, the Nigerian Government, corporate organizations, the alumni and others for the successful hosting of Nigeria’s biggest university sports competition.
He further explained that the institution was developing modern sporting infrastructure, which would be utilised for the games and afterwards be opened to the public for future tournaments.
Professor Offiong disclosed that the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has also indicated its readiness to support the hosting of the games.
“The university is complementing these supports with our own resources for a seamless tournament,” he mentioned.
“The NUGA games would feature 28 events, including athletics, football, basketball, volleyball, swimming, boxing, wrestling, rugby, cricket and taekwondo amongst others.”
“To ensure we prepare adequately for the sports festival as an institution, management has resolved to cutback lectures on Wednesday to 2pm henceforth. Lectures have been directed to adhere to this temporary schedule,” he concluded.
The Vice Chancellor said that hosting NUGA 2026 was part of the University of Calabar’s contributions to attract visitors, guests and tourists, to Calabar, Nigeria’s hospitality capital and boost economic activities.
It would be recalled that the University of Calabar successfully hosted the NUGA Games approximately 36 years ago, a feat the Vice Chancellor stated will be achieved this time around.
