Our facilities in top shape ahead of 11th FASU Games, says UNILAG VC

Posted : 24 August 2024

The University of Lagos Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, has reaffirmed the institution's readiness for the 11th Federation of African University Sports (FASU) Games, which will be co-hosted with Lagos State University, Ojo.

Prof. Ogunsola also declared that the institution would successfully co-host the 11th FASU Games.

She gave the assurance during a media interaction held at the UNILAG Senate Chambers ahead of the FASU Games.

Ogunsola noted that the institution, having successfully hosted the last Nigerian University Games (NUGA)—which was considered the best ever in the history of the Games—was prepared to surpass that record.

The 11th FASU Games, themed “Unite, Compete, Excel,” are scheduled to take place between Sept. 20 and Sept. 29 at the sports complexes of UNILAG and Lagos State University (LASU).

According to the first female Vice-Chancellor in UNILAG’s history, the opening ceremony will take place on Sept. 21 at the UNILAG Sports Complex, while the closing ceremony will be held on Sept. 28 at LASU grounds in Ojo.

“Other features of the Games include a Scientific Conference, where sports academics will have the opportunity to share and create new knowledge around sports,” Ogunsola said.

"Side events will also include the agenda-setting Vice-Chancellors’ Meeting and the FISU/FASU Strategic Dialogue."

Ogunsola emphasized that the university boasts world-class facilities capable of supporting the sports infrastructure needs of the prestigious competition, and welcomed other African nations to Lagos.

“Lagos 2024 will be the 11th edition of the Games and the second time Nigeria has hosted it.

“This 11th FASU Games is taking place exactly 20 years after the Games were last hosted by Nigeria, at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) Bauchi in 2004, and 50 years after the first edition was hosted by the University of Ghana.

“This time, history will be made as the Games will be jointly hosted by two of Nigeria’s leading universities, UNILAG and LASU, marking the first-ever co-hosting of the Games since its inception in 1974.

“This co-hosting represents a model of cooperation and collaboration between federal and state institutions in Lagos,” she said.

The Professor of Clinical Microbiology added: “For us, the 11th FASU Games comes two years after we single-handedly hosted the 26th NUGA, which saw over 5,000 athletes and officials from 75 Nigerian universities on our campus.

"It was such a remarkable event, where stakeholders unanimously rated the 26th NUGA as the best NUGA to date.

“The 11th FASU Games will be another opportunity for us to replicate and even improve upon the success stories of the 26th NUGA, by showcasing our commitment to fostering sports excellence.

“The FASU Games are not just about sports; they represent a broader vision of unity, youth empowerment, and academic excellence across the African continent.

“Hosting the Games is a chance to contribute to the development of sports on our continent, while also highlighting the incredible potential of our students,” Ogunsola assured.

Regarding the state of the university's sports facilities, Prof. Ogunsola confirmed that operations across the centers hosting events would run smoothly.

“Our preparation for the FASU Games has been meticulous. We have upgraded our sports facilities to international standards and ensured that the necessary logistics are in place to guarantee a seamless and exciting event.

“I want to assure all participants, officials, and spectators that UNILAG will deliver an unforgettable experience that reflects the spirit of African unity and excellence.”

Ogunsola also called for more partnerships from corporate organizations, both private and public, as well as government agencies, to collaborate with UNILAG in delivering a world-class event.

She assured that investments in the Games would yield immediate rewards and long-term benefits for the sponsors.

“Sponsorships in the FASU Games are not just investments in sports, but in the future of our youth, in strengthening African unity, and in supporting various organizations.

“We have also ensured adequate security arrangements for the safety of our athletes.

“Sometimes, the news about Nigeria seems unfavorable, but when visitors come, they often leave with a completely different perspective because Nigerians are a great people.

“These Games will further highlight what Nigeria stands for and showcase our nation’s greatness. It’s not just about UNILAG or LASU; it’s about Nigeria as a whole.

“We expect a loud round of applause once we successfully host the 11th FASU Games,” Ogunsola concluded.

Our facilities in top shape ahead of 11th FASU Games, says UNILAG VC

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