By Comfort Olayinka
The National Assembly has pledged strong legislative support to the Nigeria Universities Games Association (NUGA) as preparations intensify for the 2025 NUGA Games scheduled to take place at the University of Jos.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, gave the assurance through the Chairman of the House Committee on Sports, Hon. Kabiru Amadu, who—alongside the Committee’s Deputy Chairman, Hon. Mohammed Jajere—received the NUGA delegation on Thursday in Abuja.
Speaking on behalf of the Speaker, Hon. Amadu reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to strengthening sports development across Nigerian universities, especially ongoing projects at the University of Jos, which will host the 27th edition of the Games.
“I can assure you that the National Assembly will support your projects. All you need to do is make the formal request, and I will personally follow up,” Amadu said. “It is part of our Committee’s plan to ensure that by 2026, every Nigerian university has a functional sports complex or mini-stadium capable of hosting international competitions.”
He added that quality sports infrastructure would open the door for young people to build careers in sports while improving the overall university experience.
NUGA Seeks Stronger Legislative Partnership
Leader of the NUGA delegation, Mr. Gushen Obey, expressed gratitude for the warm reception from the Speaker and the Sports Committee. He said the visit aimed to deepen collaboration with lawmakers ahead of the Games slated for November 6–16, 2025.
Obey revealed that a record 91 universities will participate in the 2025 edition, which will feature both sporting and cultural activities. He also extended an invitation to the National Assembly to attend the closing ceremony as part of efforts to promote unity and showcase Jos as a peaceful city.
He highlighted the progress made on various sports facilities at the University of Jos—including hockey, cricket, and indoor sports halls—while noting that several others were still under construction.
“Our goal is to keep students engaged through sports because sports unify everyone in Nigeria,” Obey said. “We are seeking the National Assembly’s assistance in completing ongoing projects estimated at ₦13 billion to ensure the university can host international competitions. We also want to start exporting Nigerian sports talent to the world and raise the hopes of our youth.”
