Fifty thousand athletes from over 50 universities across the country are expected to participate in the 2026 Nigeria Universities Games Association Games to be hosted by the University of Calabar.

The vice-chancellor of the university, Offiong Offiong, disclosed this at a news conference in Calabar.

The 28th edition of the biennial sporting event is scheduled to be held from November 14 to November 24.

The vice-chancellor said athletes would compete in 28 sporting events during the games.

He expressed the institution’s readiness to host the competition, describing it as a platform to promote academic and athletic excellence and strengthen unity among Nigerian universities.

“The games will promote academic and athletic excellence while strengthening unity among Nigerian universities. I assure you that the University of Calabar is fully prepared to deliver a memorable event anchored on integrity, fairness and sportsmanship,” he said.

On security, the vice-chancellor said the university was collaborating with relevant security agencies to ensure a hitch-free competition.

According to him, although Calabar remains one of the most peaceful cities in the country, adequate measures are being put in place to guarantee the safety of participants and visitors.

Mr Offiong appealed to stakeholders, including government, corporate organisations, alumni and development partners, to support the successful hosting of the games.

He commended the Cross River government for its continued support and partnership towards the organisation of the sporting festival.

The vice-chancellor also underscored the media’s role in mobilising public support and enhancing visibility for the forthcoming games.

He noted that hosting the event would accelerate the development of modern and durable sports facilities on the university campus.

Mr Offiong urged the NUGA Council to continue providing guidance and cooperation as preparations intensify for the competition, adding that the institution would construct a sports complex as a legacy project for the 2026 games.

According to him, the project will serve as a lasting reminder of the event and contribute to the development of future national and international sporting champions.

The NUGA Games were first hosted by the University of Ibadan in 1966, while UniCal last hosted the competition in 1990. 

(NAN)