The National Institute of Transport Technology (NITT), Zaria, has secured the hosting rights for the 2026 Research Institute Games Association of Nigeria (RIGAN) Games, following the successful inauguration of the Local Organising Committee (LOC).
RIGAN is a coalition of Research and Development Institutes under various Federal Ministries, established to promote sports development, unity and camaraderie among research institutions nationwide.
The RIGAN Games serve as a platform for talent identification, sports development and strengthened collaboration among participating institutes. The last edition was held in Ibadan and hosted by the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN), featuring keen competition across several sports disciplines.
While inaugurating the LOC, RIGAN President, Prof. OluwaFeranmi Owolade, called on Nigerians to support the games, describing them as a rallying point for unity and the discovery of sporting talents. He also commended the Director-General of NITT, Dr. Bayero Salih Farah, for his commitment to ensuring a successful hosting.
“The RIGAN Games is a major national sporting event that requires dedication and teamwork. I am confident that under Dr. Farah’s leadership, NITT will deliver an unforgettable experience,” Prof. Owolade said.
In his remarks, Dr. Farah assured RIGAN of NITT’s readiness, pledging to provide the necessary facilities, infrastructure and hospitality to guarantee a hitch-free games.
Chairman of the NITT Sports Committee, Dr. Hassan Abdulkadir also expressed excitement over the hosting opportunity, stating that the institute is prepared to showcase its facilities and organisational capacity.
The 2026 RIGAN Games are expected to hold in December, with the exact dates to be announced. Meanwhile, members of the RIGAN National Executive Council (NEC) are expected to visit NITT, Zaria, for facility inspection and confirmation of readiness ahead of the games.
