SPORTS: UNICAL To Host 27th NUGA Games In 2024

By Maxwell Effiong

The University of Calabar (UNICAL) will host the 27th edition of the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) in 2024, the varsity has said.

Established in 1966, NUGA is the Olympic level competition for varsities in Nigeria. And, the University of Calabar will host its 27th games after the 26th slated for 2022 at the University of Lagos, Lagos State.

The Director of Sport’s, Dr. Blessing Anam disclosed this at the end of two weeks long maiden edition of sports fiesta organised by the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) at the U.J Esuene sports stadium in Calabar where UNICAL emerged tops with seven gold, six silver and 10 bronze medals.

412 athletes from fourteen sporting clubs participated in the games, which also saw Jao Sports Club emerge first runner-up with two gold, two silver and three bronze medals.

Effiom Okokon Academy and Class Youth Academy placed joint third on the medals log with two gold, two silver, and two bronze medals.

The University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) placed fourth on the log with two gold, one silver, and two bronze medals while Hope of Glory football club placed fifth with one gold, one silver and two bronze medals followed by Eastside sports club with one gold medal.

The fiesta featured different games including football, tennis among others with Eastside sports club emerging winner in the football category after beating Akamkpa united in a penalty shoot out following a one all draw during regulation time. Prince 7 football club placed third via a walkover due to the non-appearance of Hope of Glory.

Stand out performances were awarded. Victor Ogar of UNICROSS carted the golden booth with four goals. Akamkpa united emerged best behaved team, while Samuel Eso of Akamkpa united was awarded the most valuable player award.

The fiesta aims at engaging youths positively to tackle vices and discover hidden talents, explained the NYCN vice chairman, Joel Henshaw.

Michael Odere, president of the Eastside sports club, expressed optimism that the games will be better by the next edition, where he hopes his team will defend their medals and win more.