History was made that week at the University of Abuja as the institution hosted the largest student pageant in its history, marking the first-ever outdoor edition of the Mr and Miss UniAbuja competition.

The two-day event, held on December 12 and 13, 2025, drew thousands of students and spectators, setting a new benchmark for student-led campus events and redefining the scale of pageantry within Nigerian universities.

Speaking at the event, Prince Bethel Okechukwu Ukpai, host of the pageant and Director of Socials of the Students’ Union Government (SUG), described the moment as the fulfillment of a long-held vision.

“This dream began as far back as my 100 Level,” Ukpai said. “I kept asking myself how a university of over 30,000 students could host its biggest pageant indoors. That question became a mission, and today, that mission has become a reality.”

According to organizers, the outdoor pageant was designed not only to accommodate the growing student population but also to elevate the standards of campus entertainment and student creativity.

“We didn’t just organize a pageant,” Ukpai added. “We changed the narrative, raised the standard, and created history. This event proves that with vision, courage, and teamwork, students can deliver excellence on a grand scale.”

The event’s success was attributed to strong institutional support and private partnerships. Sponsors, including Rickstore, UFB, Cway, Cue, and Play Spot, were acknowledged for their contributions, which organizers described as investments in youth development and campus excellence.

Ukpai also praised the Students’ Union Government for its leadership and support, as well as the Council of Socials, comprising Directors of Socials across the university, for their coordination and commitment throughout the planning process.

Special recognition was extended to his family—represented by Barrister Chris Ukpai, Esq.—and to the organizing team, whose efforts behind the scenes ensured the smooth execution of the historic event.

With the successful staging of the outdoor pageant, Mr and Miss UniAbuja have now set a new standard for student events at the University of Abuja, signaling what organizers say is the beginning of even bigger initiatives in the future.

“History has been made, standards have been raised, and this is only the beginning,” Ukpai said.