Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) has issued a desperate plea to Corporate Nigeria and the Federal Ministry of Sports for financial assistance, stating that without their support, Nigeria may not be able to participate in the upcoming World University Games in Chengdu, China.
In an impassioned statement, NUGA’s Acting Secretary General, Chidiebere Ezeani, highlighted the severe lack of funding as a major obstacle to the participation of talented Nigerian student athletes in the prestigious event.
Ezeani emphasized that NUGA had meticulously selected 75 exceptional student-athletes who had displayed remarkable skills and talent across seven different sports. These athletes had dedicated themselves to rigorous training and had become a source of immense pride. However, their dreams of competing on the international stage were now in jeopardy due to the scarcity of financial support.
The association urgently called upon the government, sports authorities, and corporate sponsors to recognize the immense value of investing in university athletes. According to NUGA, these athletes represent the future of Nigerian sports, and their success would serve as an inspiration for generations to come.
Ezeani stressed that the World University Games not only showcased sporting excellence but also fostered cultural exchange and global camaraderie among student-athletes from around the world.
NUGA implored the relevant entities to step forward and provide the necessary financial support, stating that with timely assistance, Nigeria’s talented athletes could represent their nation with pride, resilience, and determination.
The association expressed that investing in their journey to Chengdu would not only empower the athletes but also contribute to the development of Nigerian sports and serve as an inspiration for future generations.
The World University Games presents an opportunity for Nigeria to demonstrate its sporting prowess, enhance its international reputation, and leave a lasting impact on the world stage.
NUGA’s call for support aimed to ensure that Nigerian athletes could seize this opportunity and make their nation proud. The fate of Nigeria’s participation in the games now hangs in the balance, awaiting a response from the government, sports authorities, and corporate sponsors.
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