Lagos, Nigeria, is gearing up to host the 11th African University Games from September 20 to 29, 2024. The co-hosts, Lagos State University (LASU) and the University of Lagos (UNILAG), are collaborating to promote sports excellence within the African university community, as announced in a press statement by Chidiebere Ezeani, the Ag. Secretary General of NUGA.
The event will showcase a variety 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 recent commissioning of projects at Lagos State University, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the African university sports community, aligning with his vision for sports development and top-notch facilities.
A historic aspect of this event is the collaboration led by female vice-chancellors, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola of the University of Lagos and Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello of Lagos State University.
Prof. Ogunsola stated plans to leverage the excellent facilities developed during the NUGA Games in 2021, including enhancing the university sports center and the recently commissioned 240-bed sports hostel. Prof. Olatunji-Bello expressed gratitude to the Governor of Lagos State, highlighting the significance of the event for Lagos 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 urged them to showcase Nigerian hospitality and provide Africa with a memorable experience.
The 11th African University Games promise to be a celebration of athleticism, unity, and cultural exchange, solidifying Nigeria’s commitment to the growth of sports on the continent.