By Ado Salisu
The Pro-Chancellor of Northwest University, Kano, Professor Hafiz Abubakar, has pledged the university’s full support for its athletes as preparations intensify for the forthcoming Nigerian Universities Games Association (NUGA) Games scheduled to hold in Calabar, Cross River State, in November.
Professor Abubakar made the pledge during the opening ceremony of the maiden edition of the Inter-Union Staff Football Competition held at the university’s main campus.
He said organising regular sporting competitions among staff and students would help discover and nurture talents while promoting sports development across the institution.
According to him, with the NUGA Games fast approaching, the university must intensify efforts to identify and recruit talented athletes capable of excelling at the national competition.
He assured that the university management, led by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Amina Salihi Bayero, would continue to provide a conducive environment and the necessary support to ensure the success of the institution’s athletes.
The former Deputy Governor of Kano State described sports as a powerful tool for promoting unity and enhancing the image of universities, states and the nation.
Professor Abubakar also urged the Directorate of Sports to develop a comprehensive strategy and begin early preparations ahead of the November tournament.
“With the calibre of athletes we have in the university, coupled with their commitment and determination, the sky will be their limit,” he said.
He commended the Directorate of Sports for its dedication and urged all stakeholders to support efforts aimed at sustaining the university’s growing reputation in sporting activities.
In the opening match of the competition, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) defeated the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) 2-1.
The competition continues on Tuesday, while the final is scheduled for Monday, July 27, 2026. The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Amina Salihi Bayero, is expected to attend the final as the Special Guest of Honour.
