The Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA), in partnership with the University of Calabar (UNICAL), has officially unveiled OMON the Gorilla as the official mascot of the 28th NUGA Games, set to take place from November 14 to 24, 2026, in Calabar, Cross River State.

The unveiling marks another milestone in preparations for the biennial university sporting festival, with the mascot designed to symbolize the values of strength, resilience, unity, excellence, and determination that define university sports and student-athletes across Nigeria.

Inspired by the critically endangered Cross River Gorilla, one of the world's rarest primates found in Cross River State, OMON also serves as a powerful ambassador for wildlife conservation and environmental sustainability.

Dubbed the "Paradise Games," the 28th edition of NUGA aims to showcase the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and rich biodiversity of Cross River State while promoting awareness about the importance of protecting the environment and preserving endangered species.

According to NUGA, OMON will feature prominently in promotional campaigns, community engagement programmes, volunteer initiatives, and educational activities leading up to the Games, helping to build excitement and foster greater public participation.

The 28th NUGA Games are expected to bring together thousands of student-athletes, officials, and sports enthusiasts from universities across Nigeria for a celebration of sporting excellence, cultural exchange, and national unity in Calabar.

The official unveiling of OMON underscores NUGA's commitment to creating a memorable Games experience while using sports as a platform to champion environmental conservation and sustainable development.