The Energy Was Electric at the UNIJOS 2025 Volunteer Orientation!
The spirit of service came alive on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, as the University of Jos hosted the Volunteer Orientation for the 27th Nigerian University Games (NUGA UNIJOS 2025). The event began at 2:00 PM at the heart of the university, bringing together hundreds of young changemakers, all ready to power the biggest inter-university sports festival in Nigeria.
The atmosphere was charged with excitement and unity, as students from across campuses converged in Jos to prepare for one goal, making the Games a success through teamwork, passion, and pride.
Representatives on the high table included the Dean of Student Affairs Representative, the SUG President and Vice President, and the Head of Media and Marketing Communications for NUGA, Ms. Chidiebere Ezeani. The session opened with the National Anthem, followed by a high-spirited welcome address by the Head of Volunteers, Dakwan Nankus Joel, who set the tone for a day of learning, collaboration, and renewed purpose.
Guests such as the SUG Director of Sports and a representative of the Dean of Student Affairs gave brief remarks, highlighting the significance of student participation and institutional support for the Games. A special goodwill message from the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tanko Ishaya, was delivered by his representative, commending the volunteers for their willingness to serve as the heartbeat of NUGA UNIJOS 2025.
A major highlight of the session was the presentation by Ms. Chidiebere Ezeani, who walked volunteers through their roles and responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence and balance in service. In her words, Volunteers should know when to do their duties and not overexert themselves out of being nice or overly people-pleasing. Knowing when to stop, give, or apply pressure is a key nuance of the job description.
The second half of the orientation focused on departmental briefings, code of conduct and guidelines, and the communication structure detailing the hierarchy from team leads to supervisors and reporting lines. Volunteers were also briefed on their daily schedules, attendance procedures, and the expectations that would define their NUGA experience.
The day ended with an interactive session, closing prayers, and a group photo session that captured the joy and solidarity of the moment, a portrait of youth leadership in motion.
From classrooms to sports arenas, and now to the 27th NUGA Games stage, these volunteers stand as the backbone of an unforgettable experience, a celebration of service, passion, teamwork, and pride.
In the heart of Jos City, a new chapter begins. The countdown to NUGAUnijos2025 is finally drawing to a close, just 1 day to go before the Games ignite!