National Assembly Pledges Full Support For NUGA, University Sports Development

National Assembly Pledges Full Support For NUGA, University Sports Development

By Niyi Busari 

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, has assured the Nigeria Universities Games Association (NUGA) of the National Assembly’s full support in completing sports infrastructure across universities, particularly at the University of Jos, host of the 2025 NUGA Games.

The Speaker made the commitment through the Chairman of the House Committee on Sports, Hon. Kabiru Amadu, alongside the Committee’s Deputy Chairman, Hon. Mohammed Jajere, received the NUGA delegation on Thursday in Abuja.

Hon. Amadu, speaking on behalf of the Speaker, pledged legislative backing and collaboration with relevant government agencies to ensure university sports facilities meet international standards.

 “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,” he stated. “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 developing such facilities would not only enhance the university environment but also create opportunities for young athletes to build careers in sports.

NUGA Seeks Legislative Partnership

Leader of the NUGA delegation, Mr. Gushen Obey, expressed appreciation for the warm reception by the Speaker and members of the Sports Committee. He explained that the visit aimed to strengthen ties between the association and the legislature ahead of the 27th edition of the NUGA Games, scheduled to be held at the University of Jos from November 6 to 16, 2025.

According to him, this year’s Games will feature a record 91 participating universities and a combination of sporting and cultural events.

 “We invited the National Assembly to be part of the closing ceremony to help promote unity and change the narrative about Jos as a city of peace,” he said.

Obey noted that everal sports facilities at the University of Jos such as hockey, cricket, and indoor sports halls have been newly completed, while others remain under construction.

 “Our goal is to keep students engaged through sports because sports unify everyone in Nigeria,” he added. “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.”