Nigeria risks missing World University Games in China
The Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) says Nigeria’s participation in August’s World University Games in
Chengdu, China is in jeopardy due to funding issues.
Chidiebere Ezeani, the Acting Secretary General of the association says ‘severe lack of funding is jeopardizing the
participation of our talented student athletes who have been selected to represent our nation.’
In a statement she issued on Tuesday, the former Sports journalist says the association is in urgent need of assistance
from Nigerians.
‘We appeal to the government to come to our aid and support our athletes to the World University Games.
‘We also call on sports authorities and corporate sponsors to recognize the immense value of investing in university
athletes. They are the future of Nigerian sports, and their success will inspire generations to come.’
A number of Nigerian athletes, especially in track and field, have used the World University Games platform to launch
themselves into global reckoning.
Ajayi Agbebaku, the first Nigerian to win a medal at World Athletics’ flagship event, the World Championships travelled to
Helsinki, Finland for the Championships after winning the triple jump title at the World University Games in Edmonton,
Canada.
Some of today’s athletes who have attained legendary status like Yusuf Ali, Innocent Egbunike and a few others used the
World University Games platform to become the household name they became in world track and field.
‘NUGA is therefore imploring government, sports authorities and corporate sponsors to step forward and provide the
necessary financial support to ensure Nigeria’s participation at the World University Games.
‘With timely assistance, we can empower our talented athletes to represent our great nation with pride, resilience, and
determination.
‘Time is of the essence, as the World University Games draw near. NUGA urgently appeals to all stakeholders to recognize
the crucial role university athletes play in shaping the future of Nigerian sports.
‘By investing in their journey to Chengdu, we invest in the development of Nigerian sports and the inspiration of
generations to come,’ said Ezeani.
