By ANDRE BISYIT
Benson Idahosa University, BIU, has emerged champions of the 27th edition of the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA), hosted by the University of Jos, after clinching 23 gold, 6 silver and 2 bronze medals.
The host institution, the University of Jos, secured second place with 17 gold, 15 silver and 17 bronze medals while the University of Benin finished in third position with 15 gold, 9 silver and 10 bronze medals.
At the closing ceremony Saturday, the Governor of Plateau State, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for sports to thrive.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Josephine Piyo, he stressed that the tournament had witnessed the discovery of new talents and the enhancement of unity among students, qualities he described as values that defined the country’s spirit of oneness.
“This edition of NUGA was more than a sporting event, but a clear demonstration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda for Nigerian youth, as seen throughout the games,” he said.
He maintained that the Federal Government’s commitment to empowering the youth through education and sports was evidence that both remained vital channels for moulding character, discipline and nurturing future leadership.
He noted that hosting the tournament in Plateau State symbolised its peaceful atmosphere and its reputation for producing exceptional minds and talents who had contributed meaningfully to the country, adding that, despite the challenges encountered over time, the state remained a beacon of excellence and unity.
“This tournament has served as a platform for building relationships that will add value among the students, and I want to congratulate you all for competing with passion, fairness and integrity, and showing that success is earned.”
Professor Tanko Ishaya, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos, who expressed excitement at the success of the event, disclosed that there were no security breaches recorded during the tournament.
“I want to congratulate all the athletes for being legendary. Whether you’ve won or not, you’ve come here to unite and to demonstrate that we have talented Nigerians who are looking for a platform to showcase their talents, and that’s why the Federal Government created this avenue,” he said.
Professor Ishaya maintained that records showed that the institution had hosted the best tournament in history, and thanked the Plateau State Government, athletes, technical officials, coaches, subcommittees and other sponsors for making the event a great success.
In their separate remarks, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, INEC Chairman; the Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Gyang Buba; Pozoh Johnson Joro Magaji, the Ujah of Anaguta; and Sanusi Mika’ilu Sami, Emir of Zuru, commended the institution for hosting the best NUGA with the participation of over ninety universities, and assured the organisers of their continued support.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of trophies and cash rewards, which included ₦2 million to the first position, ₦1.5 million to the second-place institution and ₦1 million to the third-place team.