By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA – The Nigeria University Games Association (NUGA) has unveiled a strategic plan to transform the 2025 championship into a platform for youth empowerment, job creation, and wealth distribution, with the backing of President Bola Tinubu.

The initiative, announced at an event in Abuja, aims to leverage sports to unite communities, uplift young Nigerians, and position the country as a global sporting powerhouse.

Speaking at a gathering held at the Abuja National Stadium yesterday, Group Chairman of Royal CBS, Mr. Khalifah Onu, revealed that the 2025 NUGA Games would benefit from a structured roadmap and the support of key government agencies, including the National Sports Commission, the Ministry of Youth Development, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Federal Road Safety Corps.

Mr. Onu emphasized President Tinubu’s commitment to youth development, stating that the games would have a lasting impact beyond 2025.

“The 2025 University Games will stand out due to its structured roadmap and the solid backing of President Bola Tinubu, who has shown unwavering dedication to youth development,” he said.

He further highlighted the broader goals of the initiative, noting that NUGA 2025 would promote peace and unity in divided communities.

“This competition is not just about sports; it’s about empowering young people to become champions on the international stage throughout their careers,” Onu added.

The Royal CBS chairman also addressed the need to revive NUGA’s visibility and impact, which had waned in recent years.

“Now that it’s our responsibility, we are working hard to use NUGA as a platform to empower university students, create jobs, and distribute wealth,” he stated.

In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, Prof. Tanko Ishaya, represented by Mr. Abaji Adankala, expressed confidence in the preparations for the games, which are scheduled to take place from November 6–16, 2025.

“As the host university, we feel very pleased with their readiness. Preparations are currently at 90 percent, and we are confident in our capacity to successfully host this national event,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Group Director-General of Royal CBS, Ataboh Shehu, reiterated the organization’s commitment to identifying and nurturing young sporting talents.

“Our aim is to emulate the sports development structures seen in Western countries, where young athletes are discovered early, supported with scholarships, and guided to build careers in sports development,” he stated.

The event also doubled as a celebration of the Eid El Kabir festival.