While speaking during an inspection tour of the U.J. Esuene Stadium in Calabar on Tuesday, Governor Otu, accompanied by NUGA officials and the management of the University of Calabar, UNICAL, emphasized the city’s readiness and deep-rooted sporting culture.


“Calabar is a youth-friendly, peaceful, and welcoming city with a serene and green environment that makes it ideal for hosting national and international sporting events,” Otu said.


He noted that the U.J. Esuene Stadium has produced several national football legends, including Uwenm Ekarika, Etim Essien, and John Okon. He also reminded the delegation that the first captain of Nigeria’s national football team was from Calabar and led the team to England for international fixtures.

Read Also: Cross River Hires 4,000 New Local Government Workers


Expressing gratitude that NUGA is returning to Calabar, Governor Otu said he is confident the event will be a resounding success under the leadership of Dorncklaimz Enamhe, Executive Secretary of the NUGA 2026 Local Organising Committee.


“Enamhe is known for his dedication and commitment to any responsibility entrusted to him. I have no doubt he will deliver on this national assignment,” Otu said.


Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to sports development, the governor highlighted investments made over the past two years to revive and promote sporting activities in the state.
In his remarks, Enamhe showcased Calabar’s sports infrastructure, describing it as among the best in the country.


“Calabar boasts the greenest stadium in Nigeria, a state-of-the-art basketball court, and an Olympic-size swimming pool. It is also home to top-class table tennis champions,” he said.
He further noted that with Africa’s largest street party the Calabar Carnival, the city offers a vibrant platform for youth interaction and cultural exchange.


“Hosting NUGA in UNICAL again after 35 years is a major milestone for Cross River State,” Enamhe added.


Preparations for NUGA 2026 are underway, with stakeholders optimistic that the games will not only spotlight university-level sports excellence but also reinforce Calabar’s reputation as a hub for sporting and cultural events.

Source: Punch