Africa University Games (FASU) flag off in Lagos

Fasu president, Dr. Ashraf Sobby, lights the ceremonial torch to officially mark the Start of the 11th All African Games Lagos 2024. Image Credit: @Eragbie_joshua (X)

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All African Games Lagos 2024 (FASU Games)

Africa University Games (FASU) flag off in Lagos

Hassan Abdulsalam 06:27 - 22.09.2024

Over 5000 students from 40 African universities are in Lagos for the 11th All African University co-hosted by the University of Lagos and Lagos State University.

The 11th All Africa University Games (FASU) was officially declared open on Saturday at the University of Lagos Sports Center. The opening ceremony featured cultural displays and a march past by participating institutions from across the African continent.

Students at the FASU Games Opening ceremony
Students at the FASU Games Opening ceremony

A total of 40 universities from across Africa are participating in the Games, competing in various sports including football, athletics, basketball, volleyball, chess, scrabble, E-Sports, taekwondo, judo, cricket, badminton, handball, squash, swimming, table tennis, and tennis.

In her opening remarks, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, Vice Chancellor of Lagos State University, commended FASU for allowing her university and the University of Lagos to co-host the competition for the first time in its history.

Students at the FASU Games Opening ceremony
Students at the FASU Games Opening ceremony

She emphasised the significance of the Games in promoting African unity, mutual respect, and a spirit of oneness among athletes.

Professor Folasade Ogunsola, Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, echoed these sentiments, describing the Games as a symbol of the Africa that everyone desires. She encouraged the athletes to compete with great spirit and sportsmanship.

Students at the FASU Games Opening ceremony
Students at the FASU Games Opening ceremony

Senator John Enoh, the Sports Minister, represented by the Lagos Liaison Officer of the Ministry of Sports Development, Nkana Mbora, welcomed the athletes and expressed gratitude to FASU for granting Nigeria the hosting rights of the Games.

Engr. Bawa Mohammed, President of the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA), also addressed the athletes, emphasising the importance of the Games as a platform for showcasing leadership qualities and making friends.

Students at the FASU Games Opening ceremony
Students at the FASU Games Opening ceremony

The Games was officially declared open by Dr Ashraf Sobby, President of FASU, who also lit the Games torch.

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