Ado Salisu
The Pro-Chancellor of Northwest University, Kano NWUK, Professor Hafiz Abubakar, has pledged the university’s full support for its athletes as preparations intensify for the forthcoming Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) competition scheduled to be held in Calabar, Cross River State.
Professor Abubakar made the pledge during the opening ceremony of the maiden Inter-Union Staff Football Competition held at the university’s main campus.
He said organising regular sporting competitions among staff and students would help identify and develop talented athletes while promoting sports development within the institution.
The Pro-Chancellor noted that with the NUGA Games approaching, all stakeholders must work together to discover and nurture skilled athletes capable of representing the university and achieving outstanding results at the national competition.
He assured that the university management, under the leadership of Vice-Chancellor Professor Amina Salihi Bayero, would continue to provide a conducive environment and the necessary support to enable athletes to excel.
Professor Abubakar, a former Deputy Governor of Kano State, described sports as a powerful tool for fostering unity, promoting healthy competition and enhancing the image of educational institutions and the nation.
He urged the university’s Sports Directorate to implement effective strategies and ensure adequate preparation ahead of the NUGA Games, scheduled for November.
Expressing confidence in the athletes, he said their commitment and determination would position the university for a successful outing.
The Pro-Chancellor also commended the Sports Directorate for its dedication and called on all stakeholders to sustain their support towards advancing sports development in the institution.
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 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.