Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has reaffirmed the state’s readiness and safety to host the 2026 edition of the Nigerian Universities Games Association (NUGA), assuring that preparations are already in full swing to deliver an event of national pride.
The governor gave the assurance on Tuesday during an inspection tour of the U.J. Esuene Stadium, Calabar, alongside officials of NUGA and the management of the University of Calabar (Unical). The tour was aimed at assessing facilities ahead of the multi-sport collegiate competition.
Speaking at the event, Otu described Calabar as a youth-friendly, peaceful, and environmentally serene city — one that has consistently maintained a strong sporting heritage and a reputation for hospitality.
“The field we are standing on today has produced some of Nigeria’s greatest football icons, including Uwenm Ekarika, Etim Essien, and John Okon, among others,” the governor said.
“The first captain of Nigeria’s national football team was a Calabar man who led the team to England for competitive matches. So, this city has always been part of Nigeria’s sporting story.”
Otu expressed delight that NUGA would be returning to Calabar after 35 years, describing it as a homecoming for sports in Nigeria. He noted that the games would not only celebrate athletic excellence but also project Cross River’s tourism and youth development agenda to the rest of the country.
The governor commended the Executive Secretary of the NUGA 2026 Local Organising Committee (LOC), Dorncklaimz Enamhe, for his proven track record of excellence and leadership, expressing confidence in his ability to deliver a world-class tournament.
“Enamhe is known for his dedication and commitment to any task entrusted to him. I have no doubt that, under his leadership, Cross River will host one of the best NUGA events ever,” Otu said.
He further highlighted his administration’s renewed focus on sports as a tool for youth engagement, social cohesion, and economic development.
“In the past two years, we have revitalised sporting activities across the state. We are not just promoting competitions but also investing in infrastructure and talent development to restore the pride of Cross River as a sporting powerhouse,” he said.
On his part, Enamhe praised the state government for its commitment to ensuring a seamless hosting experience. He said Calabar remains one of the most naturally endowed and strategically positioned cities for hosting major sporting events in Nigeria.
“Calabar boasts the greenest stadium in Nigeria, an Olympic-size swimming pool, and the best basketball court in the country. It is also home to table tennis champions and Africa’s biggest street carnival — a perfect environment for youth interaction and cultural exchange,” Enamhe noted.
He emphasised that Unical’s hosting of the NUGA Games after more than three decades was not only historic but symbolic of the state’s enduring legacy in sports and academia.
With improved security, ongoing facility upgrades, and strong collaboration between the state, the university, and NUGA officials, Otu assured Nigerians that Calabar 2026 would set a new benchmark for university sports in the country.
“We are ready, we are safe, and we are excited to welcome the nation back to Calabar,” he declared.
