By Onyekachi Chimezie
The University of Calabar (UNICAL) has been confirmed as the host of the 2026 Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) Games, marking the return of the prestigious university sports festival to Calabar after 35 years.
The official announcement was made by Dr. Michael Ajibua, Acting NUGA President, alongside Secretary-General Mr. Yunusa Bazza and Technical Committee Chairman Prof. Musa Yakasai, during a visit to Vice Chancellor Prof. Florence Obi.
During the inspection tour, the delegation visited key facilities such as the U.J. Esuene Sports Complex, Abraham Ordia Stadium, and the newly built tennis court, which Dr. Ajibua is described as “the best in any Nigerian university.”
Prof. Yakasai commended UNICAL’s preparedness, noting that 90% of the required infrastructure is already in place. He expressed confidence that the 2026 edition would be one of the best in NUGA history.
Cross River State’s Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Agnes Atsu, assured full government support, while Prof. Obi pledged to deliver a Games that would “surpass all expectations.”
