The Managing Director of Lotus Bank, Mrs Kafilat Araoye, has emphasised investing in university sports to reposition African universities and drive continental development.

Araoye was a guest speaker at the FASU Scientific Conference with the theme ‘Fostering Unity, Healthy Competition and Global Excellence through University Sports’ at the 11th All Africa University Games in Lagos.

The 2-day Scientific Conference is scheduled to end on Wednesday, at the Lagos State University, Ojo, Lagos.

Araoye highlighted the potential of university sports to foster unity, promote healthy competition, and propel African athletes to the global stage. She called on African universities to commit to providing scholarships, mentorship, partnerships, and infrastructure to support the growth of university sports.

Araoye emphasized the need for African universities to emulate the approach of Ivy League institutions in developed countries, which prioritize both intellectual and physical development through sports. She highlighted the potential of sports to break down barriers, build bridges, and catalyze growth and development.

The Lotus Bank MD/CEO advocated for inclusive participation, sportsmanship, community engagement, and the use of technology to drive university sports. She challenged African universities to recommit to providing opportunities, support, and nurturing to young athletes, enabling them to excel both in sports and academics.

Araoye also encouraged the athletes participating in the 11th FASU to see their involvement as an opportunity to lay the foundation for their future as leaders, role models, and ambassadors of Africa’s excellence.

“University sports can be a powerful tool for driving continental development and propelling African athletes to global excellence. By investing in scholarships, mentorship, partnerships, and infrastructure, African universities can create a conducive environment for young athletes to thrive both academically and athletically,” Araoye said.

On her part, the FASU General Secretary; Dr. Peninah Aligawesa applauded the management of UNILAG and LASU for the quality of hosting.

She advocated synergy and collaboration to mitigate the challenges plaguing the growth of university sport

The opening session of the 11th FASU Scientific Conference featured addresses from the Vice Chancellors of UNILAG and LASU, as well as goodwill messages from government officials and representatives of sporting bodies. The conference will address the challenges and complexities of African university sports and explore ways to enhance their development.

Written by Hassan Abdulsalam, FASU Media committee