Student Athlete Kimiakigha Joy Secured Nine Gold Medals at the 27th NUGA Games
At the 27th edition of the Nigerian University Games held at the University of Jos, one name echoed consistently across the swimming arena. Kimiakigha Peremoboere Joy of Benson Idahosa University delivered a remarkable performance that firmly established her as one of the standout student athletes of the Games, earning her recognition as NUGA Titan of the Week.
A second year student of Political Science Education, Joy approached her debut NUGA appearance with focus and determination. Competing across multiple swimming events including breaststroke, freestyle, and backstroke, she secured an outstanding total of nine gold medals. Her dominance spanned the 50m, 100m, and 200m breaststroke events, as well as the 50m, 100m, and 200m freestyle races. She also added victories in the 50m backstroke and the 200m medley, completing an exceptional medal sweep that highlighted both versatility and endurance.
For Joy, the breaststroke remains her strongest and most cherished event. She describes it as the discipline she connects with most, a sentiment that reflects in her performance and consistency in the pool. Despite this being her first appearance at the NUGA Games, she competed with the composure of a seasoned athlete, improving her personal best times in both the 50m and 200m freestyle events.
Her journey to the podium was not without its challenges. Preparing for the Games required a demanding routine of twice daily training sessions, each exceeding 3000 meters. Balancing this intensity with academic responsibilities proved difficult, particularly in maintaining proper nutrition and rest. However, motivation came from multiple sources including the guidance of her coach, the unwavering support of her teammates and her sports director Mrs. Eunice Adebayo James.
Beyond NUGA, Joy has continued to represent her institution and region at higher levels. At the West African Junior Under 18 Championships, she secured four gold medals and one silver medal, further demonstrating her competitive strength. At the All African University Games FASU, she added one gold medal, two silver medals, and two bronze medals to her growing list of achievements. These performances underline her steady rise within both national and continental swimming circuits.
Reflecting on her NUGA experience, Joy describes it simply as amazing. Her mindset going into each race was clear and focused on winning every event she entered. That clarity, combined with discipline and preparation, translated into one of the most impressive performances at the Games.
Outside the pool, Joy enjoys dancing, a hobby that complements the rhythm and control required in her sport. Looking ahead, she aspires to become a sports director while also pursuing her dream of competing at the Olympic level as a swimmer.
Her message to fellow student athletes is both practical and inspiring. She encourages them to believe in themselves, prioritise their careers, and genuinely love the sport they are engaged in. It is this mindset that continues to shape her journey.
Kimiakigha Joys story is one of discipline, clarity, and emerging excellence. As she continues to grow academically and athletically, her performance at the 27th NUGA Games stands as a defining moment and a strong indicator of even greater achievements ahead.