The University of Jos (UNIJOS) is ramping up preparations to host the Federation of International University Sports (FISU) Trials ahead of the highly anticipated World University Games set to take place in the Rhine-Ruhr region of Germany in July. As part of its broader commitment to university sports development, UNIJOS is also gearing up to host the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) competition, reinforcing its dedication to delivering a seamless and well-organized sporting event.
Commitment to Excellence
During a recent visit by NUGA President, Engr. Professor Bawa Mohammed, and other NUGA officials, UNIJOS Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tanko Ishaya, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to meeting all necessary requirements for the successful execution of the FISU Trials. He emphasized that the university’s Sports Committee is actively working to finalize all logistical arrangements in close collaboration with key stakeholders.
“We are leaving no stone unturned in ensuring that the FISU Trials are well-organized and meet international standards. Our committee members are engaging in regular consultations to address all aspects of the preparations,” Professor Ishaya stated.
NUGA’s Evaluation of Readiness
The visit by NUGA officials was aimed at assessing UNIJOS’ preparedness for the FISU Trials, which will serve as a key precursor to the NUGA Games. NUGA President, Engr. Professor Bawa Mohammed, stressed that thorough preparation for the trials would lay a strong foundation for the upcoming NUGA competition.
“Our objective is to ensure that all facilities, logistics, and requirements are in place for a smooth and efficient event. The successful hosting of the FISU Trials will not only showcase UNIJOS’ capabilities but also set the stage for an exceptional NUGA Games,” Professor Mohammed remarked.
Infrastructure and Partnerships
Providing an update on facility readiness, Chairman of the UNIJOS Sports Committee, Professor Ishaya Pam, confirmed that most of the designated sports venues are undergoing renovations and will be fully operational before the competition begins.
He further disclosed that UNIJOS has forged strategic partnerships with the Plateau State Government, the State Sports Council, and private entities such as the Lutheran Church and Rayfield Tennis Club to provide additional venues for the event. This collaborative effort is expected to ensure that infrastructural limitations do not impede the success of the trials.
To enhance athlete and official accommodations, Professor Pam stated that arrangements have been made to house participants comfortably, with support from the Plateau State Sports Council in providing additional officials. He also called on NUGA to furnish a comprehensive list of requirements to enable the university to finalize its preparations.
On-Site Inspection and Final Adjustments
Following discussions with university management, the NUGA delegation embarked on a tour of the designated sports facilities to assess their conditions firsthand. The inspection allowed officials to interact with key stakeholders, including Professor Ezra Gunen, Director of the Plateau State Sports Council, who provided insights into ongoing preparations.
The FISU Trials, scheduled to take place at UNIJOS from April 6th to 12th, 2025, will see participation from 54 universities and over 500 student-athletes competing in disciplines such as badminton, athletics, judo, taekwondo, swimming, tennis, and table tennis.
With preparations in full swing, stakeholders remain optimistic that UNIJOS’ commitment to excellence will translate into a seamless and memorable sporting event, setting the tone for both the FISU Trials and the forthcoming NUGA Games.