ABU set to host 2028 Nigerian University Games in Zaria
By Kunle Sanni –
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, has been granted provisional hosting rights for the 29th edition of the Nigerian University Games, scheduled for 2028, signalling the return of the biennial multi-sport event to the institution after more than 20 years.
The approval was conveyed by the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) in a letter addressed to the Vice-Chancellor of ABU, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, and signed by the association’s Acting Secretary-General, Yunusa M. Bazza. The decision followed deliberations and approval by the NUGA Council.
According to the letter, dated December 3, 2025, the hosting rights remain subject to the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement between the university and NUGA. The council is expected to announce the exact dates for the games at a later time.
NUGA also authorised the university to begin engagement with relevant government bodies and non-governmental organisations to establish partnerships for the successful staging of the event. ABU was further encouraged to commence the upgrade of its sports infrastructure and other related facilities ahead of the games.
Reacting to the development, Prof. Ahmed described the award as a significant milestone for the university and a boost to its sporting legacy. He said the hosting rights aligned with national efforts to develop young athletes through the university system.
He noted that ABU last hosted the Nigerian University Games in 2001 and expressed satisfaction that the institution would once again welcome student-athletes from universities across the country.
The Vice-Chancellor added that hosting the games would extend beyond sports, offering economic opportunities through activities linked to the sports value chain. He also said the event would serve as a platform for unity and national cohesion amid prevailing social and economic challenges.
Ahmed further observed that the decision came at a time when ABU had been designated as one of Nigeria’s sports centres of excellence, describing the timing as strategic. He commended the NUGA Council for the confidence shown in the university and assured that ABU would deliver a successful and well-organised competition.
