3rd left, Josephine Piyo, Deputy Governor of Plateau State, with representatives from Benson Idahosa University
The 27th Nigerian University Games (NUGA) came to a colourful close on Saturday at the University of Jos, with Benson Idahosa University emerging as overall champions in a tournament that featured 74 institutions from across the country.
Benson Idahosa University led the medal table with 25 gold, 6 silver and 3 bronze medals. The University of Jos, the host institution, finished second with 18 gold, 15 silver and 17 bronze medals, while the University of Benin came third with 15 gold, 9 silver and 10 bronze medals.
The top three institutions received cash prizes of ₦2 million, ₦1.5 million and ₦1 million respectively.
Declaring the Games closed, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, represented by Deputy Governor Josephine Piyo, described the event as a “celebration of talent, discipline, sportsmanship and unity”—values she said embody the Nigerian spirit.
She added that NUGA was “more than a sporting event,” calling it a testament to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. “The federal government’s commitment to empowering young people through education and sport is evident. Sports remain a vital channel for moulding character, shaping discipline and nurturing leadership,” she said.
The games, featuring 23 sports—an increase from the previous edition hosted by the University of Lagos—drew praise from both organisers and guests for promoting peace and dismantling longstanding perceptions of insecurity in Jos. “Some athletes do not want to leave because of the welcome they received,” said University of Jos Vice-Chancellor Prof Tanko Ishaya. “This has helped change the narrative that Jos is not safe.”
Prof Ishaya also commended the athletes for embracing the theme “Unite, Play in Peace”, noting that there were no security breaches throughout the competition. “Gold medals shine, but character shines brighter,” he said. “Whether you won or not, you have shown that sportsmanship is legendary.”
NUGA President, Professor Bawa Muhammed, described the tournament as the best in recent history. “The 27th edition featured 91 participating institutions, the highest so far in NUGA history,” he said. “Strength, speed, endurance and friendship have been tested and forged.”
He also confirmed that the next edition of the Games would be held in 2026 at the University of Calabar.
Professor Joash Amupitan, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and special guest of honour, shared his delight at the success of the Games despite earlier doubts about their feasibility. “We once considered shifting the Games due to certain challenges, but today we have seen Jos not only host but excel. This is the best NUGA in recent times,” he said.
He applauded the record turnout and extended his appreciation to the athletes for contributing to what he described as a “beacon of peace” on the Plateau.
The event, which began with apprehension due to security concerns, ended with a renewed sense of unity and optimism. The organisers say they hope the friendships made during the Games will endure beyond the competition, fulfilling the vision of using sport to promote peace and national cohesion among Nigerian students.
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