Lagos, Nigeria, is gearing up to host the 11th African University Games, scheduled to take place from September 20 to 29, 2024.
Lagos State University (LASU) and the University of Lagos (UNILAG) have joined forces as co-hosts for this prestigious event, showcasing a commitment to fostering sports excellence within the African university community.
The sporting extravaganza will feature an array of disciplines across two categories:
Category 1: Individual Sports: Athletics, Badminton, Chess, Judo, Table Tennis, Tennis, Karate, Taekwondo, Swimming
Category 2: Team Sports: Basketball, Football, Volleyball, and Handball
During the commissioning of projects at Lagos State University earlier this month, His Excellency Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the African university sports community. This initiative aligns with his vision to promote sports development and provide world-class facilities for athletes.
A historic aspect of this event is the co-hosting by female vice chancellors of the respective universities. Professor Folasade Ogunsola, FAS, the 13th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, and her counterpart, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, the 9th Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University, will lead this groundbreaking collaboration.
Prof. Ogunsola shared, “We will leverage the excellent facilities developed during the NUGA Games in 2021.” She outlined plans to enhance the university sports center, including the recently commissioned 240-bed sports hostel.
Expressing gratitude to the Governor of Lagos State for his support, Prof. Olatunji-Bello highlighted the significance of this event for Lagos State and the broader Nigerian university community.
NUGA’s Acting President, Dr. Bawa Mohammed, commended the co-hosting institutions for their continuous contribution to the development of university sports in Nigeria. He tasked them with showcasing the warmth of Nigerian hospitality and providing Africa with a memorable experience.
The 11th African University Games promise to be a celebration of athleticism, unity, and cultural exchange, further solidifying Nigeria’s commitment to the growth of sports on the continent.
