NUGA Postpones 28th Games at UNICAL to 2027 After Months of Preparation

Posted : 31 October 2026

The Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) has postponed the 28th edition of its national university games, originally scheduled to take place at the University of Calabar (UNICAL) from November 14 to 24, 2026.

The competition, tagged the “Paradise Games,” has been moved to 2027, although the association has yet to announce revised dates or provide a specific reason for the decision.

NUGA confirmed the postponement in an official statement released on Thursday, October 29, 2026. The association said further information regarding the new schedule and logistical arrangements would be communicated through its official channels.

The announcement comes after several months of preparations by UNICAL and other stakeholders involved in organising the national university sports competition.

The university had introduced measures to improve student-athletes' preparations, including adjustments to its academic timetable. Management had earlier announced that Wednesday lectures and practical sessions would be suspended to provide athletes with additional training time.

UNICAL was also preparing to welcome more than 50,000 athletes, officials and visitors for the sporting event, which was expected to attract universities from across Nigeria.

In June, the university's Vice-Chancellor, Professor Offiong Effanga Offiong, expressed confidence in the institution's readiness to host the competition. He highlighted ongoing collaboration with the Cross River State Government and security agencies to ensure adequate arrangements for participating institutions and visitors.

The university had also undertaken preparations involving its sporting facilities, athlete development programmes and event logistics. A Local Organising Committee was established to coordinate activities ahead of the competition.

NUGA's postponement therefore changes the plans of student-athletes who had intensified their preparations for the November event. It also leaves the host institution with questions surrounding its earlier arrangements, particularly adjustments made to academic activities.

The association acknowledged the support of universities, student-athletes, sports administrators, partners and other stakeholders who had contributed to preparations for the Games.

However, it did not disclose whether the existing hosting arrangements at UNICAL would remain unchanged for the rescheduled competition.

As of October 30, the university management had not issued a detailed public reaction to the announcement. Students and other members of the university community are also awaiting further information on possible adjustments to academic arrangements made ahead of the original November dates.

The 28th NUGA Games remain an important fixture in Nigeria's university sports calendar, bringing together student-athletes from different institutions to compete and showcase their sporting abilities.

NUGA Postpones 28th Games at UNICAL to 2027 After Months of Preparation

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