By Uche Bibilari

The Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja (now Yakubu Gowon University), Prof. Matthew Adamu, has highlighted the role of sports as a powerful tool for peace and unity.

Adamu said this during the opening ceremony of the Pre-Nigeria University Games Association (NUGA) event on Thursday in Abuja, with students from multiple universities participating.

“Sport has become the greatest unifying force on our planet. Even those who are at war drop their weapons and embrace sport when the moment comes,” Adamu said.

He encouraged participants to use the NUGA games to build lasting friendships, noting that the competition offered more than medals, it created memories, camaraderie, and a strong sense of community.

“I know we’re here to compete, but let’s do so with friendliness. Not qualifying is not the end of the world,” he said, urging sportsmanship above rivalry or disappointment.

He emphasised that qualification should be seen as a stepping stone.

“Those who qualify will represent their universities and zone at the NUGA finals in Jos later this year.”

Adamu commended the event organisers for their efficiency.

He also expressed support for the University of Abuja team, urging them to take pride as hosts and strive for victory.

Prof. Vicky Sylvester, Director of Sports at UniAbuja, said the university was hosting 13 institutions under Zone H in preparation for the main NUGA event scheduled for November.

She said the tournament featured sports like football, volleyball, basketball, track events, chess, and badminton.

She noted that the activities fostered student interaction and promoted healthy competition among universities.

Sylvester stressed that the event broke tribal and cultural barriers among participants.

“They don’t see themselves as from different tribes but as one team.

“Unity is the biggest value in NUGA. When you are with young people, sport keeps them focused. It takes their minds off distractions and promotes positive energy,” she said.

She appealed to the public and stakeholders to support sports development by sponsoring infrastructure, including a golf course, swimming pool, and proper dressing rooms for the growing university teams.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Zone H universities include Baze University, Veritas University, Federal University Lokoja, IBB University Lapai, FUT Minna, UniAbuja, and other institutions. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru