The 14th Nigerian Universities Staff Sports Association (NUSSA) Games was officially flagged off at the Ahmadu Adamu Muazu Stadium, Bayero University Kano (BUK) New Campus.
The Independent Mirror reports that, the Vice Chancellor of BUK, Professor Sagir Adamu Abbas, declared the games open on Saturday, 24th May 2025, with no fewer than 1,131 athletes—men and women who are staff members of various Nigerian universities—are participating in the event.
While speaking at the opening ceremony, Professor Abbas emphasized that the sports event will further strengthen the existing relationships among universities in the country.
According to him, “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.”
“All our arrangements are well-prepared. Our commitment to supporting sports is why my administration decided to host this tournament,” he added.
He also commended the invited guests, the Bayero University Local Organising Committee, and all others who contributed to the ongoing tournament.
In his speech, the Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin represented Professor Bashir M. Fagge stressed the need for all levels of government to support sports in tertiary institutions.
He noted that such support is crucial for grooming young athletes who can represent Nigeria in international competitions.
The Director of Sports at Bayero University Kano Professor Rabiu Muhammad stated that the one-week sporting event would feature athletes from both academic and non-academic staff of Nigerian universities.
The NUSSA Games festival will feature 15 sports, including basketball, badminton, chess, darts, football, and golf.
Other competitions include table tennis, swimming, tennis, volleyball, among others.
A total of 35 universities are participating in the games, which commenced on Saturday, 24th May and will conclude on the 31st of May, 2025.
Dignitaries from various universities, including Vice Chancellors and Directors of Sports, attended the colorful opening ceremony held at Bayero University Kano.
