UNICAL Ready for 26th NUGA Games, Says VC
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar (UNICAL), Prof. Florence Obi, has restated the institution’s readiness to host the 26th Nigeria University Games Association (NUGA) Games.
Prof. Obi gave the assurance during a novelty football match held in her honour at the Abraham Ordia Stadium. She described UNICAL’s selection as host institution as one of the landmark achievements of her administration, recalling that the university last hosted the Games 35 years ago.
She said the forthcoming event would significantly boost sports development in the university and stand as a defining legacy of her tenure.
The Vice Chancellor also disclosed that the Cross River State Government had indicated strong interest in partnering with UNICAL. As part of that collaboration, the institution has been invited to participate in the Calabar Carnival as the only non-competing band, a move she described as a platform to promote “NUGA 26” to a wider audience.
Prof. Obi added that a NUGA inspection team would soon visit the university to assess facilities ahead of the Games. She revealed that work on the tartan track and indoor sports complex would begin shortly, noting that contractors have already been mobilised.
She commended the Acting Director of the Sports Council, Dr. Edmond Odok, and his team for their contributions to sports development under her administration.
In his response, Dr. Odok praised the Vice Chancellor for her swift approvals, support, and commitment to advancing sports in the university. He also acknowledged her sponsorship of sporting activities at various levels and her investment in training programmes for coaches, which he said enabled Team UNICAL to excel at major competitions.
