A landmark event in African sports unfolded today as the Egyptian Minister of Sports and President of the Federation of African University Sports (FASU), Ashraf Sobhy, officially declared open the 11th All Africa University Games at the University of Lagos (UNILAG).

The games, which run from 20th to 29th September 2024, mark the first-ever co-hosting in the history of the competition by two prestigious Nigerian universities, UNILAG and Lagos State University (LASU). The theme of the games is ‘Unite, Compete, and Excel’.

Representatives from across Africa, including Angola, Botswana, Burundi, Egypt, Ghana, Guinea-Conakry, Kenya, Libya, Mauritius, Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia, representing 65 Universities are participating in the games, showcasing the continent’s sporting excellence and unity.

In his opening remarks, Minister Sobhy highlighted the event’s significance and emphasized the importance of fair play and camaraderie among the athletes.

“It is history made, and I expect fair and competitive games. I also expect good collaboration among the athletes. We are happy for the collaboration of the African universities and their participation. Everyone in Africa thanks you. We must keep the track going. Thank you to Nigeria, and I wish the athletes all success,” he said.

The president of the Nigeria University Games and chairman of the organizing committee for the 11th FASU Games, Bawa Mohammed, echoed Sobhy’s sentiments, noting the broader impact of the games on Africa’s youth.

“These games are for the future of Africa. We are privileged to witness this 11th FASU Games, especially for our youth,” Mohammed remarked. “Nigeria last hosted the games 20 years ago, and it may not return for another 20 years. This is a historic opportunity for our athletes.”

The Vice Chancellor of LASU, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, emphasized the symbolic significance of the games, referring to them as a celebration of Africa’s unity in diversity.

“These games are remarkable because their significance transcends mere contests for medals. They celebrate Africa’s unity in diversity. I look forward to thrilling contests, outstanding performances, and the display of sportsmanship,” she said.

Professor Olatunji-Bello also highlighted the importance of athlete comfort and security, commending the unwavering support of Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

The Vice Chancellor of UNILAG, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, in her welcome address, described the games as historic due to the unprecedented co-hosting by two universities.

“Finally, the Lagos 2024 FASU Games are here. This event is historic, as it is the first time the games are co-hosted by two universities since its inception in 1974,” said Ogunsola.

The 11th All Africa University Games promise to be an unforgettable event as athletes from across the continent come together to compete, forge friendships, and demonstrate the unity and talent of Africa’s youth.