The University of Calabar (UNICAL) and the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) have officially unveiled OMON the Gorilla as the official mascot of the 28th NUGA Games, billed to hold in Calabar, Cross River State, from November 14 to 24, 2026.
The mascot, inspired by the critically endangered Cross River Gorilla, was presented as a symbol of strength, resilience, unity, excellence and determination, values organisers say embody the spirit of university sports and the aspirations of student-athletes across Nigeria.
The unveiling marks a major milestone in preparations for the Games, which have been christened the “Paradise Games” in celebration of Cross River State’s rich biodiversity, cultural heritage and tourism potential.
According to the organisers, OMON will serve as the face of the Games and will feature prominently in promotional campaigns, community outreach programmes, volunteer engagements and educational initiatives aimed at creating awareness on wildlife conservation and environmental sustainability ahead of the tournament.
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The 28th edition of the NUGA Games is expected to attract about 95 universities and over 10,000 athletes, coaches, sports administrators, volunteers and spectators from across the country to compete in 24 sporting events.
The University of Calabar, which will host the national university sporting festival, has reaffirmed its commitment to sports development, talent discovery and infrastructure enhancement as it intensifies preparations for the competition.
NUGA President, Prof. Bawa Mohammed, described the Games as an opportunity to showcase sporting talents, foster national unity and strengthen the development of university sports in Nigeria.
Also, the Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Offiong Effanga Offiong, assured participants of adequate security, noting that the university would work closely with security agencies to guarantee the safety of athletes and officials throughout the competition.
Beyond the sporting spectacle, organisers say the event is expected to deliver lasting social and economic benefits to the host community while promoting Cross River State as a leading destination for sports tourism and environmental conservation.
Tribune Online gathered that the 2026 edition will feature a diverse range of sporting events, with Squash, Rugby and Hockey joining traditional competitions such as Athletics, Football, Basketball, Volleyball, Table Tennis, Badminton, Swimming and Boxing.
Other events listed include Chess, Scrabble, Cricket, Taekwondo, Handball, Esports, Beach Volleyball, Kickboxing, Wrestling, Beach Soccer, Judo, Baseball, Karate, Five-Aside Hockey, Strongman, Rowing, Canoeing and Sailing.
With the unveiling of OMON the Gorilla, preparations for Calabar 2026 have gathered momentum, setting the stage for what is expected to be one of the biggest editions of the Nigerian University Games Association championship.
