Governor Mutfwang reiterates commitment to youth and sports growth, backs major facility upgrades
Preparations are in top gear as Plateau State readies to welcome thousands of student-athletes from across the country for the 27th Nigerian Universities Games Association (NUGA), set to be hosted by the University of Jos.
Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sports development and youth empowerment, describing the Games as a golden opportunity to showcase Plateau’s sporting and hospitality potential.
During an inspection visit to the J.T. Useni Stadium — one of the key venues for the upcoming Games — the Governor expressed satisfaction with the level of work done and pledged the government’s full support to ensure a successful and memorable event.
“It is with great pride that we witness the progress made in preparing for this historic event. Hosting NUGA is an honour to Plateau State, and from the onset, we resolved to lend a helping hand. We will do everything possible to make these Games a resounding success,” Governor Mutfwang said.
He emphasized that the state government would provide logistics and security support to guarantee a safe environment for athletes, officials, and visitors throughout the Games.
“The issue of security is not one we will leave to the University alone. We will ensure maximum protection at all venues so that everyone who comes to Plateau returns home safely as an ambassador of peace,” he assured.
The Governor commended the University management for its dedication despite financial constraints and stressed the importance of maintaining the sports facilities beyond the Games. To strengthen coordination, he directed the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development to temporarily operate from the Games Village during the event.
Earlier, the Acting Director of Physical Facilities, Arc. Pam Bot, briefed the Governor on completed and ongoing projects, including the Tartan Track, multipurpose indoor sports hall, and the Taekwondo Hall donated by the South Korean Embassy. He acknowledged the Plateau State Government’s interventions, noting that the stadium fence, Tartan Track, and pavilion renovations were all government-sponsored.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the University Sports Committee, Prof. Ishaya Pam, highlighted ongoing challenges such as completing the hockey and cricket pitches, swimming pool, and accommodation for over 7,000 contingents expected at the Games.
Governor Mutfwang pledged continued collaboration with the University to bridge these gaps, reiterating that youth empowerment, sports promotion, and peacebuilding remain central to his “Time Is Now” agenda.
