The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Mrs. Hulayat Omidiran, has pledged the commission’s full support to Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, as the institution prepares to host the 29th edition of the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) Games in 2028.
Omidiran made the commitment on Thursday in Abuja while receiving the university’s management team, led by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, at the FCC headquarters.
She congratulated ABU on securing the hosting rights for the 2028 NUGA Games, pending the formal signing of a Memorandum of Agreement, noting that the event would return to the university for the first time since it last hosted the games in 2001.
The FCC Chairman also commended the Federal Government’s designation of ABU as one of Nigeria’s national sports centres of excellence, with plans underway to upgrade the institution’s sports infrastructure.
She described both developments as significant opportunities to discover and nurture sporting talents while strengthening Nigeria’s sports sector.
According to Omidiran, the biennial NUGA Games remain a vital platform for developing elite student-athletes, promoting national unity, and boosting the sports economy across Nigerian universities.
Reflecting on her relationship with the institution, the FCC Chairman, an alumna of ABU, described the university as the foundation of her personal and professional growth.
> “Ahmadu Bello University shaped my character, broadened my perspective, and prepared me for the responsibilities of leadership and national service. I remain committed to supporting initiatives that promote education, youth empowerment, and national development,” she said.
Omidiran also accepted an invitation to attend ABU’s 64th Anniversary celebrations scheduled for October 4, 2026.
In his remarks, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Adamu Ahmed commended Omidiran’s contributions to public service, sports administration, and national development.
He highlighted her achievements as a two-term member of the House of Representatives, a former member of FIFA’s Women’s Committee, Secretary of the Nigerian Olympic Committee Board of Trustees, and founder of Omidiran Babes Football Club.
Ahmed noted that Omidiran also served as the Student Union Government Secretary of Queen Amina Hall during her undergraduate years, where she earned a degree in Biochemistry.
He expressed confidence that her wealth of experience would contribute significantly to ABU’s preparations for hosting a successful 2028 NUGA Games.
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