The air crackled with the spirit of healthy competition as two of Lagos State’s leading universities, Lagos State University (LASU) and the University of Lagos (UNILAG), came together for the Pre-FASU Games Seminar on Tuesday, 26th March 2024. This convergence marked a significant milestone as the institutions geared up for the joint hosting of the 11th edition of the All Africa Universities Games (11th FASU Games), scheduled to take place from 20th to 29th September 2024.
Hosted by LASU, the event saw esteemed figures from both universities joining forces to merge their organizing committees in preparation for the prestigious event. Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, the Vice Chancellor of LASU, set the tone for the seminar, emphasizing the importance of hosting such a monumental event. She underscored that beyond promoting sports, hosting the FASU Games was a celebration of the rich diversity and talent within the African continent.
Expressing confidence in the joint efforts of the organizing committees, Prof. Olatunji-Bello stated, “I have no doubt that with the array and pedigree of individuals… we are in for nothing but success.” She urged committee members to unite in their endeavor to ensure the smooth execution of the event, emphasizing the importance of emerging victorious as hosts.
Acknowledging the support of Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, Prof. Olatunji-Bello reiterated the commitment to making history and clinching victory for both institutions.
In her address, Prof. Folashade Ogunsola, the Vice Chancellor of UNILAG, echoed the sentiments of her LASU counterpart, stressing the significance of hosting the best games in the competition’s history. She highlighted the demographic dividend of Africa’s youthful population and emphasized the role of events like the FASU Games in nurturing collaboration and excellence among young people.
The seminar featured enlightening lectures by distinguished speakers, including Mr. Bola Orodele, Prof. Iyiola Oni, and Prof. Clement Fasan, setting the stage for robust engagement among committee members.
Notably, the joint hosting of the FASU Games marks a historic moment as it is the first time that two universities within the same state will host the competition, signifying a remarkable collaboration between LASU and UNILAG.
As LASU and UNILAG embark on this journey towards hosting a landmark event, the spirit of unity, excellence, and competition promises to elevate the FASU Games to unprecedented heights, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come.
