The Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) has officially postponed the 28th edition of the NUGA Games scheduled to be held at the University of Calabar (UNICAL).

The Games, earlier slated for November 14–24, 2026 and tagged “Paradise Games,” have now been shifted to 2027, with no specific revised dates announced yet.

NUGA announced the decision in a press release on October 29, 2026, stating that updated schedules and logistical arrangements will be released through its official communication channels. No explicit reason was given for the postponement.

The shift comes after months of intense preparations by the host institution.

UNICAL had suspended all Wednesday lectures and practical classes to allow student-athletes train ahead of the Games, with expectations of hosting over 50,000 athletes, officials and visitors.

At a media briefing in June, the university management had expressed confidence in its preparedness, noting collaboration with the Cross River State Government and security agencies to deliver a memorable edition.

The postponement is a setback for student-athletes who had intensified training and for the university community, which had geared up facilities and logistics for the national university sports fiesta.

As at press time, UNICAL management was yet to issue an official reaction to the development, while students await further directives on academic calendar adjustments earlier made for the Games. (The Guardian)