By Jibrin Hussaini Kundum
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Bauchi, has emerged overall winner of the North-East Nigeria University Games Association (NUGA) qualifying competitions, held at Gombe State University from September 24 to 27, 2025.
The Bauchi-based institution clinched 34 gold and 14 silver medals to outshine 10 other universities in Zone M, including Sa’adu Zungur University Gadau, Federal University of Health Sciences Azare, and the University of Maiduguri.
ATBU athletes excelled across multiple disciplines such as athletics, taekwondo, chess, judo, table tennis, boxing, badminton, and beach volleyball. Its female contingent dominated the table tennis category, sweeping gold medals in singles, doubles, and team events.
A statement by the University’s Director of Information and Public Relations, Mallam Zailani Bappah, described the victory as a reflection of the school’s commitment to excellence in sports.
Vice Chancellor, Professor Ibrahim Hassan Garba, commended the athletes for their outstanding performance and pledged sustained support to Team ATBU in future competitions.
Similarly, the University’s Sports Director, Alhaji Yahaya Abdulkarim, attributed the team’s success to rigorous training, resilience, and dedication.
With this feat, ATBU is set for a strong representation at the forthcoming national NUGA games.
