The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, has pledged the National Assembly’s full support to the Nigeria Universities Games Association (NUGA) in completing ongoing sports infrastructure across Nigerian universities, with special focus on the University of Jos, host of the 2025 NUGA Games.

 

The assurance was delivered on Thursday in Abuja through the Chairman of the House Committee on Sports, Hon. Kabiru Amadu, who received the NUGA delegation alongside the Committee’s Deputy Chairman, Hon. Mohammed Jajere.

 

Speaking on behalf of the Speaker, Hon. Amadu promised legislative backing and collaboration with relevant government agencies to ensure that university sports facilities attain internationally accepted 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 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.”

 

Hon. Amadu added that standard sports facilities would not only improve university environments but also create pathways for young athletes to launch professional sports careers.

 

The leader of the NUGA delegation, Mr. Gushen Obey, expressed appreciation for the warm reception by the Speaker and the Sports Committee. He explained that the visit was aimed at strengthening ties between the association and the legislature ahead of the 27th edition of the NUGA Games, scheduled for November 6–16, 2025, at the University of Jos.

 

Obey announced that the forthcoming Games would feature a record 91 participating universities, combining sporting events with cultural showcases.

 

“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.

 

He also revealed that while several facilities at the University of Jos—such as hockey, cricket, and indoor sports halls—have already been completed, others are still under construction.

 

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

 

The 2025 NUGA Games are expected to be one of the largest in the event’s history, with the University of Jos preparing to welcome thousands of athletes, officials, and spectators.