Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has confidently declared that the region is fully equipped and secure to host the 2026 Nigerian Universities Games Association (NUGA) event.
During a visit on Tuesday, Governor Otu accompanied a NUGA delegation alongside the University of Calabar‘s management team to evaluate the facilities at Calabar’s UJ Esuene Stadium.
He portrayed Calabar as a city that warmly embraces youth, characterized by tranquility, safety, and a lush environment, making it an excellent venue for both national and international sports competitions.
“This very ground has nurtured some of Nigeria’s legendary football players, such as Uwenm Ekarika, Etim Essien, and John Okon,” the governor remarked.
He also highlighted that the first captain of Nigeria’s national football team hailed from Calabar and led the squad on competitive tours in England.
Expressing his appreciation for NUGA’s return to Calabar after a 35-year interval, Governor Otu expressed strong confidence that the upcoming games would be a remarkable success.
He further praised Dorncklaimz Enamhe, the Executive Secretary of the NUGA 2026 Local Organising Committee (LOC), emphasizing his trust in Enamhe’s ability to orchestrate an unforgettable tournament.
Governor Otu underscored Calabar’s rich sporting heritage, noting it as the pioneering city in Nigeria where football was first introduced.
“Enamhe’s reputation for dedication and responsibility assures me that he will excel in managing this prestigious national event,” he added.
Reiterating his administration’s dedication to advancing sports, the governor noted that over the last two years, the state government has actively revitalized and elevated the status of sports within Cross River.
Enamhe highlighted Calabar’s exceptional sports infrastructure, including the nation’s greenest stadium, top-tier basketball courts, and an Olympic-standard swimming pool.
He also pointed out Calabar’s prominence in table tennis, producing world-class champions in the sport.
“Calabar hosts Africa’s largest carnival, providing an ideal platform for youth engagement. Having the University of Calabar host NUGA after 35 years is a significant milestone for the state,” Enamhe concluded.