“We need to push sports at all levels, beyond treating as just entertainment”
That was the gauntlet thrown by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development Services) and Alternate Chairperson, University of Lagos (UNILAG) Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the 11th Federation of African University Sports (FASU), Professor Ayodele Atsenuwa, as the University hosted a high powered delegation of FASU and Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA).
The delegation, which included the FASU Secretary General, Dr. Peninnah Kabenge Aligawesa, and NUGA President, Dr. Mohammed Bawa, was in UNILAG on Thursday, August 15, 2024, for an interactive meeting and inspection tour of facilities ahead of the 2024 FASU Games. Scheduled to begin on Friday, September 20, 2024, the Games tagged Lagos 2024 is to be hosted by UNILAG and Lagos State University (LASU).
Professor Atsenuwa’s pivotal address to the delegation highlighted the need for a paradigm shift in the way sports is perceived and utilized, as well as the transformative potential of sports in driving economic growth and development. She also reiterated the significance of leveraging sports to drive broader societal benefits.
Her words, “Sports should no longer be viewed merely as a source of entertainment. It is a powerful tool for economic development, capable of stimulating local economies, creating job opportunities, and fostering international connections.”
The interactive meeting, which had in attendance Deputy Vice Chancellors, Management Service, and Academics & Research: Professor Lucian Chukwu and Professor Bola Oboh, served as a platform for discussions with the leadership of sub-committees saddled with various responsibilities regarding the organization of FASU 2024. The discussions focused on the meticulous preparations being made for all aspects of the event, from facilities and security to logistics.
At the end of the inspection tour which provided an in-depth look at the state-of-the-art sports facilities, accommodation options, security, feeding, and other key infrastructure at UNILAG, the delegation praised the University management team for its exemplary planning and commitment to ensuring a successful event. They acknowledged the University’s efforts to host a groundbreaking and impactful competition.
Earlier in the day, the team had met with the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade T. Ogunsola, OON, FAS at the Senate house of the institution. The Vice-Chancellor had expressed confidence that the forthcoming FASU games would not only showcase the athletic prowess of African university students but serve as a springboard to harness and groom Africa’s budding talent into future global stars.
For details, please click: FASU Games 2024: Prof Ogunsola says “UNILAG is on Course” – University of Lagos
Report: Bayo Salau
Photographs: Micheal Joshua