The 14th edition of the Nigerian Universities Staff Sports Association (NUSSA) Games was officially flagged off on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at the Ahmadu Adamu Muazu Stadium, located at the New Campus of Bayero University Kano (BUK).
The week-long tournament brought together 1,131 athletes comprising both academic and non-academic staff from 35 Nigerian universities competing in 15 sporting events, including football, basketball, table tennis, swimming, darts, tennis, badminton, chess and volleyball.
Declaring the games open, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Sagir Abbas said the institution was fully prepared to host the event and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to promoting sports as a tool for unity and national development.
“BUK is ready and proud to host this tournament. Our desire to support and promote sports in Nigerian universities informed our decision to host the 14th NUSSA Games,” he said. “This gathering will no doubt strengthen the bonds among universities and contribute to national cohesion.”
Professor Abbas commended the efforts of the Local Organising Committee and expressed appreciation to dignitaries, guests, and participants who have contributed to the success of the opening ceremony.
The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, who was represented by Professor Bashir Fagge underscored the importance of government support for sports development in tertiary institutions.
He said investing in staff and student athletes helps to nurture future talents who can represent Nigeria at the global level.
Also speaking at the event, BUK’s Director of Sports, Professor Rabiu Muhammad, said the games will showcase friendly yet competitive encounters between staff from across the nation’s ivory towers.
“This event promotes not just fitness and sportsmanship, but camaraderie and mental well-being among university staff,” he noted.
The opening ceremony attracted Vice Chancellors, Directors of Sports, and other top officials from various institutions, creating a festive atmosphere marked by parades, cultural displays, and musical performances.
The NUSSA Games are scheduled to run until May 31, with medals and trophies to be awarded to outstanding teams and individuals across the participating universities.
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