• Oct. 30, 2024, 10:50 a.m.
• By

WRITTEN BY: OGECHI S. MMEKA The 11th edition of the Federation of African University Sports (FASU) Games concluded on a high note in Nigeria, uniting students, officials, and sports enthusiasts from across the African continent. Co-hosted by the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and Lagos State University (LASU), this year’s FASU Games achieved record-breaking participation, with 68 universities competing in various sports disciplines and setting new standards for African university sports. Opening Ceremony: A Grand Celebration of African Heritage The Games kicked off on September 21 with a dynamic opening ceremony, celebrating African cultural diversity through traditional dances, music, and speeches from distinguished guests. Dr. Decius Chipande, representing the African Union Sports Council, delivered a stirring keynote address titled “The University Sports in Africa: The Africa Union Wants”, emphasizing the transformative role of sports in building unity and resilience among African youth. UNILAG Vice Chancellor Prof. Folasade Ogunsola and NUGA President opened the ceremony, underscoring the FASU Games' role as a unifying platform for students to engage in healthy competition and build international friendships, creating an unforgettable start to the nine-day event. 2nd FASU Vice Chancellors’ Forum and FISU-FASU-NUSF Seminar: The 2nd FASU Vice Chancellors’ Forum held on September 22 brought together university leaders and sports directors from across Africa. Under the theme “Empowering University Sports: Pathways to Excellence,” the forum explored initiatives to support student-athletes in academic and sports excellence. Moderated by Ms. Florence Nakymya, the forum provided a platform for sharing ideas on sustainable sports development for African universities. The FISU-FASU-NUSF Seminar that followed encouraged collaboration and explored strategies to promote sports among African youth, enriching the dialogue on university sports’ future across the continent. Scientific Conference: Unity and Excellence through Sports: Adding to the intellectual dimension of the Games, a scientific conference under the theme “Fostering Unity, Healthy Competition, and Global Excellence through University Sports” took place. The conference featured presentations from scholars, researchers, and students who discussed how university sports can play a pivotal role in enhancing academic growth and fostering unity among students. This academic engagement underscored the FASU Games’ commitment to both physical and intellectual development. Olympic Value Education Programme (OVEP): The Olympic Value Education Programme (OVEP) highlighted values of respect, excellence, and friendship through sports. Participants engaged in sessions that emphasized ethical sportsmanship, underscoring how the Olympic spirit can inspire unity across different cultures. The OVEP was a cornerstone of the Games, promoting sportsmanship, integrity, and fair play among young African athletes. Cultural Showcase: Nigerian Undergraduates Exhibition of Arts (NUXART): The Nigerian Undergraduates Exhibition of Arts (NUXART) was a major attraction at the FASU Games, hosted in UNILAG’s Multipurpose Hall C. Organized by Mr. Patrick Okpah, the exhibition celebrated the creativity and artistic talent of Nigerian students. It was graced by prominent guests, including Ms. Penninah Kabenge Aligawesa, Secretary General of FASU, H.E. Dr. Ashraf Sobhy, FASU President, and NUGA Delegates, including the President and Secretary General. The NUXART exhibit provided a unique opportunity for international guests to appreciate Nigerian culture through visual arts, strengthening cross-cultural connections. Thrilling Competition Across Multiple Sports The Games witnessed an intense display of skill and determination across a wide range of sports, including football, basketball, volleyball, athletics, and tennis. Among the highlights, The American University in Cairo emerged as the overall champion, with Lagos State University (LASU) in second place and University of Lagos (UNILAG) securing third. The University of Ghana and the University of Development Studies (also from Ghana) placed fourth and fifth, respectively, demonstrating the high caliber of West African athletes. With meticulous organization by the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) and Main Organizing Committee (MOC), the competition adhered to international standards, ensuring a fair and professional environment. Each sports event was executed seamlessly, underscoring the organizers' commitment to excellence and creating an inspiring experience for all involved. Closing Ceremony: Celebrating Success and Looking Ahead The closing ceremony on September 29 was a memorable tribute to the athletes’ perseverance, sportsmanship, and resilience. Bolaji Lawal, Managing Director of Ecobank Nigeria, delivered a rousing address, calling the athletes “rising stars who exemplify African potential.” His words resonated with the audience, reinforcing the importance of FASU in promoting leadership, athletic growth, and cultural pride among African youth. A Legacy of Impact for African University Sports The 11th FASU Games underscored the significance of university sports in fostering unity, academic excellence, and leadership in Africa. Through the efforts of NUGA and FASU, the Games have become a transformative platform for student-athletes, contributing to education, cultural exchange, and community building across African universities. As the curtain closes on this year’s Games in Lagos, anticipation builds for the next edition, which will be hosted by The American University in Cairo, Egypt, in 2026. This upcoming event is expected to build on the achievements of 2024, advancing the mission of university sports in Africa and strengthening the bonds among African nations. PHOTOS: ORGANISING COMMITTEE