14th NUSSA Games Kick Off at Bayero University Kano

The 14th edition of the Nigerian Universities Staff Sports Association (NUSSA) Games has officially commenced at Bayero University Kano (BUK).

The Competition starts with no fewer than 1,131 staff athletes both men and women from various Nigerian universities participating in the week-long event.

The tournament was declared open by the Vice Chancellor of BUK, Professor Sagir Adamu Abbas.

During his speech at the opening ceremony, Professor Abbas emphasized the importance of sports in fostering unity and strengthening inter-university relationships across the country.

“BUK is fully ready to host this tournament. It is out of our desire to promote sports in Nigerian universities and in Nigeria as a whole, which is a symbol of unity,” he said.

“All our arrangements are well-prepared. Our commitment to supporting sports is why my administration decided to host this tournament,” he added.

Professor Abbas also expressed appreciation to the invited dignitaries, the Bayero University Local Organizing Committee, and all stakeholders who contributed to the success of the event.

Speaking on behalf of the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, Professor Bashir M. Fagge highlighted the importance of government support for sports development at all levels of tertiary education.

He noted that such support is vital for grooming athletes who can represent Nigeria on the global stage.

Professor Rabiu Muhammad, Director of Sports at BUK, disclosed that the one-week tournament will feature competitions in 15 sports disciplines, including basketball, badminton, chess, darts, football, and golf. Other events include table tennis, swimming, tennis, and volleyball.

A total of 35 universities are participating in this year’s NUSSA Games, which will run from 24th to 31st May 2025.

The opening ceremony, held at Bayero University Kano, was graced by dignitaries including Vice Chancellors and Directors of Sports from various institutions across the country.

(Radio Nigeria Kaduna, Khadija Aliyu).