The University of Lagos (UNILAG) and Lagos State University (LASU) have been designated as the co-hosts for the upcoming 11th African University Games.
This prestigious sporting event, organized by the Federation of Africa University Sports (FASU), is slated to unfold from September 20 to 29, 2024. Originating in Accra, Ghana, in 1975, this marks the second time Nigeria will play host, with the last occurrence transpiring in Bauchi State in 2004, attracting participation from 15 nations.
The announcement of UNILAG and LASU as co-hosts came following the conclusion of the 10th edition hosted by Kenyatta University in Kenya in 2022. Affirming this decision, Chidiebere Ezeani, the acting Secretary-General of the Nigeria University Games Association, issued a press statement on Thursday, emphasizing the commitment of both institutions to fostering sports excellence within the African university community.
A distinctive feature of this edition is the collaborative effort between female vice-chancellors, Professor Folasade Ogunsola of UNILAG and Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello of LASU, reflecting a groundbreaking commitment to the event.
The array of disciplines featured in the games spans individual and team sports, including athletics, badminton, chess, judo, basketball, football, volleyball, and handball.
With FASU’s announcement of the inclusion of more universities in the competition, the event anticipates the participation of approximately 5000 athletes. During the recent commissioning of projects at LASU, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu reiterated his commitment to supporting the African university sports community.
UNILAG’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, expressed readiness to leverage the facilities developed during the NUGA Games in 2021, highlighting plans to enhance the university sports center, including the newly commissioned 240-bed sports hostel.
Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello of LASU emphasized the event’s significance for Lagos State and the broader Nigerian university community. NUGA’s acting president, Dr. Bawa Mohammed, lauded the co-hosting institutions for their continuous contributions to the development of university sports in Nigeria.
The 11th African University Games promise to be a landmark event, uniting athletes from across the continent in a celebration of sportsmanship and competition.
