Unless Corporate Nigeria and the Federal Ministry of Sports come to Nigerian University Games Association’s (NUGA) rescue, the country will not participate in this year’s World University Games scheduled to hold from July 28 to August 8 in Chengdu, China.

In a Save-Our-Soul (SOS) by NUGA, yesterday, the association said it was facing a severe lack of funding, which is jeopardising Nigerian talented student athletes’ participation in the world games.

A statement signed by its Acting Secretary General, Chidiebere Ezeani, NUGA said it has “painstakingly chosen 75 exceptional student-athletes to compete across seven different sports at the World University Games. These athletes have dedicated themselves to rigorous training and have showcased exceptional skills and talent, making us immensely proud.

“However, their dreams of competing at this international event are at risk owing to the scarcity of financial support.”

Ezeani expressed urgent need for assistance, saying, “we appeal to the government to come to our aid and support our athletes to the World University Games; we call upon the government, sports authorities and corporate sponsors to recognise the immense value of investing in university athletes. They are the future of Nigerian sports and their success will inspire generations to come.”

She described the World University Games as a platform that not only showcases sporting excellence but also fosters cultural exchange and global camaraderie among student-athletes from around the world.

“It is an opportunity for Nigeria to demonstrate our sporting prowess, enhance our international reputation, and inspire future generations of athletes.”

NUGA implored the 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, she said, “we can empower our talented athletes to represent our great nation with pride, resilience and determination.

“By investing in their journey to Chengdu, we invest in the development of Nigerian sports and the inspiration of generations to come,” she concluded. (The Guardian)

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