By Suleiman Abubakar Rimi Uku, Lafia
The Sports University of Nigeria, Idumuje-Ugboko, Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, is poised to revolutionise the integration of academics and professional sports, according to Senator Ned Nwoko’s media consultant, Michael Ogar Gabriel.
Licensed by the National Universities Commission (NUC) on May 12, 2022, the privately-owned institution is the first specialised sports university in Sub-Saharan Africa and aims to become a Centre of Excellence in sports, business, and academics, attracting aspiring athletes across Africa and beyond.
Described as a “citadel for champions,” the university combines rigorous academic programmes with compulsory high-performance sports training in disciplines such as football, swimming, basketball, tennis, badminton, athletics, golf, hockey, gymnastics, taekwondo, squash, shooting, archery and darts.
Grounded on the principles of Equity, Justice, Fairness, Hard Work, Dedication and Commitment, the institution provides equal opportunities to all students while fostering self-improvement and national development.
Its academic offerings span multiple faculties, including Sports Science and Technology, Sports Administration and Management, Physical and Health Sciences, Allied Health Sciences, Mass Communication, Management and Social Sciences, Sciences, and Architecture. Courses range from nursing, public health and physiotherapy to journalism, software engineering, cyber security and political science.
For professional growth, the university also offers certificate and diploma programmes in sports media, psychology, corporate athletics, fitness coaching, sports law, sponsorship, marketing and vocational training.
Talented athletes without full academic qualifications can enrol in preparatory programmes leading to degree studies.
The institution’s flexible academic structure allows students to blend sports training with courses from other faculties, ensuring that every graduate emerges with both professional qualifications and athletic exposure.
Plans are underway to partner with international universities and sports institutes to broaden students’ global experience.
Nestled in the serene environment of Idumuje-Ugboko, the campus boasts ICT-driven classrooms, state-of-the-art sports facilities, boarding accommodation and a secure learning atmosphere.
Stakeholders in education and sports describe the Sports University as a landmark initiative capable of repositioning Nigeria and Africa on the global stage in both sports and academics.
