By Joe Ephraim, Calabar
The University of Calabar (UNICAL) has confirmed that Squash, Rugby and Hockey will be among the 28 sporting events to be contested during the 28th edition of the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA), scheduled to hold tentatively from November 14 to 24, 2026.
Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Offiong Effanga Offiong, disclosed this while briefing journalists in Calabar on the institution’s preparations to host the country’s biggest university sporting competition.
He said the university is expecting more than 50,000 athletes, officials and visitors from about 50 universities across Nigeria, describing the games as an opportunity to promote sports development, youth talent discovery and national integration.
According to the Vice Chancellor, the 2026 edition will feature a diverse range of sporting events, with Squash, Rugby and Hockey joining traditional competitions such as Athletics, Football, Basketball, Volleyball, Table Tennis, Badminton, Swimming and Boxing.
Other events listed include Chess, Scrabble, Cricket, Taekwondo, Handball, Esports, Beach Volleyball, Kickboxing, Wrestling, Beach Soccer, Judo, Baseball, Karate, Five-Aside Hockey, Strongman, Rowing, Canoeing and Sailing.
Professor Offiong said the university is collaborating with the Cross River State Government, the Federal Government, corporate organisations and alumni to ensure a successful tournament while also developing sporting infrastructure that will serve future generations of students and athletes.
He added that the institution is committed to promoting sporting excellence, revealing that every Wednesday from 2 p.m. has been set aside for sporting activities on campus, with lectures and practical sessions suspended during the period to encourage participation.
The Vice Chancellor also assured participants of adequate security, noting that the university would work closely with security agencies to guarantee the safety of athletes and officials throughout the competition.
He expressed confidence that hosting NUGA 2026 would further position the University of Calabar as a major hub for sports development while boosting tourism and economic activities in Cross River State.
