The 27th Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) Games kicked off in grand style at the University of Jos (UniJos) on Monday, November 10, 2025, with electrifying performances in the swimming events that left the crowd cheering throughout the day. The much-anticipated competition showcased a blend of youthful energy, athletic prowess, and school pride as athletes from across Nigerian universities battled fiercely in the pool.
Day One’s events featured two major swimming finals — the Men’s 50m Breaststroke and the Women’s 100m Freestyle, both delivering spectacular results and a glimpse into the intense rivalry expected throughout the Games.
Event 4: 50m Breaststroke (Men) Final – Uruonah Victor Steals the Show
In the men’s 50m breaststroke final, Uruonah Victor of Benson Idahosa University delivered a commanding performance to clinch first place with an impressive time of 32.28 seconds, setting a strong tone for his university on the opening day.
Coming closely behind was Doulahumam Augustine of Delta State University, Abraka, who finished with a time of 34.45 seconds, while Eniepiegha Ego of Nigerian Maritime University secured third place at 39.50 seconds after a competitive finish.
Other strong contenders included:
- Abubakar Jamiu of Ajaisin University Akungba – 39.56 seconds
- Okenmeke Lawrence of Nigerian Maritime University – 43.48 seconds
- Alimi Oluwadamilare from University of Ibadan – 46.73 seconds
- Yu Tommy representing Afe Babalola University – 47.62 seconds
- Okafor Chinemerem of FUOYE – 1:18.13
- Shitu Abubakar of Kaduna State University – 1:19.45
Unfortunately, Monday Israel from Akwa Ibom State University was disqualified (DQ) after a technical violation during the race.
Uruonah’s victory not only earned Benson Idahosa University early recognition on the medal table but also solidified their presence as one of the teams to watch throughout the Games.
Event 5: 100m Freestyle (Women) Final – Kimiakigha Joy Leads a Historic Win
The women’s 100m freestyle final saw another outstanding display of dominance from Benson Idahosa University, as Kimiakigha Joy secured first place in grand fashion with a time of 1:09.54, showcasing strength, speed, and perfect coordination in the water.
Garry Tamaraudedieneni from Delta State University, Abraka, followed in second place with 1:22.12, while Osinaike Shalom of Obafemi Awolowo University clinched the third position after clocking 1:27.09 in a closely contested race.
Other finishers in the women’s freestyle included:
- Balogun Aishet – University of Ibadan – 1:39.96
- Aloba Esther – University of Ibadan – 1:47.95
- Sijuola Oluwatobi – Ekiti State University – 2:19.54
- Adebayo Oluwademilade – Obafemi Awolowo University – 1:38.90
Kimiakigha’s victory marked a double gold celebration for Benson Idahosa University on the first day of swimming competitions, with both the men’s and women’s teams topping their respective categories.
Team Standings and Reactions
By the end of Day One, Benson Idahosa University (BIU) had already established an early lead in the swimming medal standings, thanks to gold-medal performances from Uruonah Victor and Kimiakigha Joy.
Officials and spectators praised the athletes for their discipline, sportsmanship, and high performance, particularly given the level of competition displayed by Delta State University, Obafemi Awolowo University, and Nigerian Maritime University.
Coaches from various institutions expressed optimism about their athletes’ improvement in the coming days, as more swimming categories — including butterfly, relay, and backstroke — are set to take place.
A Spirit of Unity and Excellence
The 27th NUGA Games, hosted by the University of Jos, has already proven to be a vibrant festival of talent and university pride. Beyond the medals, the competition continues to embody the spirit of unity, resilience, and excellence among Nigerian students.
With several sporting events lined up for the week, from athletics to football and basketball, all eyes will remain on the swimming pool — where new records may yet be broken and history made.
Final Thoughts
The Day One swimming results have set the tone for what promises to be a highly competitive and memorable NUGA Games. As Benson Idahosa University takes the early lead, the question now is — can they maintain their momentum against the strong challenge from Delta State, OAU, and others?
The coming days at UniJos 2025 will reveal whether this dominance continues — or if other universities rise to the occasion and rewrite the leaderboard.
