Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has assured that the state is fully prepared and safe to host the 2026 edition of the Nigerian Universities Games Association (NUGA).
Otu gave the assurance on Tuesday while leading a joint delegation of NUGA officials and the University of Calabar management team on an inspection tour of the UJ Esuene Stadium, Calabar — one of the venues for the upcoming games.
Describing Calabar as a youth-friendly, peaceful, and welcoming city, the governor said the state’s serene and green environment makes it ideal for hosting national and international sporting events.
“The field we are standing on today has produced some of Nigeria’s greatest football icons, including Uwenm Ekarika, Etim Essien, and John Okon. The first captain of the national football team was a Calabar man, who led the team to England for competitive matches,” Otu said.
He expressed delight that the NUGA Games would return to Calabar after 35 years, adding that the state is ready to deliver one of the best editions in history.
The governor also expressed confidence in Dorncklaimz Enamhe, Executive Secretary of the NUGA 2026 Local Organising Committee, commending his dedication and capacity to deliver memorable games.
“Enamhe is known for his commitment and results-driven leadership. I have no doubt he will deliver on this national assignment,” Otu stated.
Highlighting Calabar’s deep sporting heritage, Otu noted that the city holds the distinction of being the first in Nigeria where football was played, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to sports development.
“In the past two years, we have restored sporting activities to their pride of place in Cross River. Our government will continue to invest in sports as a key driver of youth development and unity,” he added.
Speaking during the inspection, Enamhe described Calabar as home to some of Nigeria’s best sports facilities, including the greenest stadium in the country, a world-class basketball court, and an Olympic-size swimming pool.
“Calabar is also the heart of table tennis in Nigeria and hosts Africa’s biggest carnival, providing an avenue for youth interaction and cultural celebration. Having NUGA return to UNICAL after 35 years is monumental for the state,” he said.
