PLATEAU HOSTS HISTORIC NUGA GAMES AS GOVERNOR CALEB MUTFWANG PLEDGES TO MAKE THE STATE A SPORTS HUB.


Plateau State, the Home of Peace and Tourism, recorded another milestone on Saturday, November 8, 2025, as thousands of student-athletes from across Nigeria converged on Jos for the 27th edition of the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA). The prestigious competition is being hosted for the first time in Plateau State by the University of Jos.

This historic hosting was made possible through the visionary leadership and steadfast commitment of the Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, who serves as the Chief Host and a passionate advocate for youth empowerment through sports.
Featuring over 10,000 athletes from 91 universities nationwide, the Games kicked off with a colourful and exhilarating opening ceremony graced by dignitaries, sports enthusiasts, and senior government officials. The lighting of the NUGA torch illuminated the Jos skyline, symbolizing unity, hope, and the rebirth of sports excellence on the Plateau.

Through the hosting of NUGA 2025, Governor Mutfwang’s “Time Is Now” administration continues to demonstrate its commitment to rebuilding Plateau’s sporting legacy by investing in modern infrastructure, strengthening peacebuilding initiatives, and promoting youth development. These efforts underscore his vision of positioning Plateau as a national model for inclusive governance and sports-driven socio-economic transformation.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Governor Mutfwang remarked: “This event is not just about competition; it is about celebrating the strength, unity, and talent of Nigerian youth. We are proud to host the best of our universities here on the Plateau and assure all participants of a peaceful, safe, and memorable stay. Plateau is open, secure, and ready to host Nigeria with pride.”
He commended the University of Jos for its resilience and organizational excellence, noting that the successful hosting of NUGA 2025 reflects the renewed national confidence in Plateau State under his administration. The Governor reaffirmed his belief that sports remain a strategic tool for fostering peace, nurturing talent, and promoting unity among Nigeria’s youth.

“Our youths are the heartbeat of our future. Through sports, we are rebuilding dreams, restoring confidence, and reshaping the destiny of our State. Every investment in sports is an investment in peace, in progress, and in people,” he added.

Declaring the Games open, Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, commended the Plateau State Government and the University of Jos for hosting an event of such national significance, describing it as “a beacon of unity and a testament to the resilience and creativity of young Nigerians.”
He applauded Governor Mutfwang for creating an enabling environment for youth development, saying:

“I must salute my brother, Governor Mutfwang, for his visionary leadership and for transforming Plateau into a hub of peace, sports, and youthful innovation. This event proves that when leadership meets commitment, great things happen.”

In her goodwill message, Senator Grace Folashade Bent, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University of Jos, expressed profound appreciation to Governor Mutfwang for his “exceptional logistical and moral support” which ensured the successful hosting of the Games.

Similarly, Professor Tanko Ishaya, Vice Chancellor of the University, described the event as “a dream fulfilled,” crediting the Governor’s hands-on approach, regular site visits, and passion for youth advancement as key factors behind the achievement. 

“Governor Mutfwang’s personal involvement, consistent facility inspections, and unwavering support gave us confidence that Jos could host the biggest NUGA Games in history. Today, that vision has become reality,” the Vice Chancellor affirmed.

Also speaking, Professor Bawa Mohammed, President of NUGA, announced that the 2025 edition recorded the highest number of participating universities and athletes since the inception of the Games in 1966. He attributed the record-breaking turnout to Plateau’s peaceful atmosphere and the strong logistical backing from the State Government.
As the athletes marched in a vibrant parade and the NUGA flame blazed high above Jos, the spectacle captured the essence of Governor Mutfwang’s vision, a Plateau united in peace, driven by purpose, and alive with youthful energy. It was a defining moment that set a new benchmark for sports and youth development, not only in Plateau State but across Nigeria.

EXCERPTS FROM Gyang Bere the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State.

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