The University of Calabar (UNICAL) is set to officially flag off its weekly Sports-for-All Programme, a fitness and recreation initiative designed to encourage healthy living, physical wellness, and improved productivity among staff and students of the institution.

The programme will be formally launched by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Offiong Effanga Offiong, on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at the Hogan Bassey Sports Pavilion (Car Park), beginning at 2:00 p.m. prompt.

According to the university's Sports Council, the initiative is part of efforts to foster a culture of regular physical activity and strengthen community engagement through sports and recreational activities. The programme is expected to bring together staff and students from across faculties and departments for weekly fitness sessions every Wednesday.

Organisers noted that participation in the programme aligns with the university management's drive to promote healthy lifestyles and enhance staff and student wellbeing. Members of the university community have therefore been encouraged to actively participate and appear in appropriate sportswear and footwear to ensure effective engagement.

The initiative comes at a time when UNICAL is intensifying efforts to strengthen its sports profile ahead of hosting the 28th Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) Games later this year. The university has continued to invest in sports development and infrastructure as part of preparations for the national sporting festival.

The Vice Chancellor has repeatedly emphasized the importance of sports development within the institution, describing it as a critical component of student and staff welfare as well as institutional growth. Recent engagements by the university leadership have also highlighted plans to expand partnerships and support for sports development.

As part of arrangements for the programme, Wednesdays between 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. have been designated as lecture-free periods to enable members of the university community to participate fully in the activities.

The Sports-for-All Programme is being coordinated by the UNICAL Sports Council under the chairmanship of Prof. Lucas O. Ogunjimi, with Dr. Edmond Odok, Acting Director of Sports, overseeing implementation.

University authorities expressed optimism that the programme will not only improve physical fitness among participants but also foster teamwork, recreation, and a healthier campus environment.