The University of Lagos (UNILAG) is set to field 143 athletes for the 11th Federation of African University Sports (FASU) Games, which will be co-hosted by UNILAG and Lagos State University (LASU). The games are scheduled to take place from September 20 to 29.
At a news conference held at the UNILAG Senate Chambers on Thursday, Vice Chancellor Prof. Folasade Ogunsola announced the university’s participation and detailed the athletes’ composition. The games, themed “Unite, Compete, and Excel,” will feature competitors from 43 countries across 17 events, including athletics, football, basketball, volleyball, handball, badminton, and tennis.
The UNILAG delegation comprises 85 male and 58 female athletes. Specific details include 18 male and 18 female football players, 10 swimmers, and 12 players each for basketball and volleyball. In chess, 10 players will compete, while judo will see 12 participants, divided into eight males and four females. Taekwondo will include five male and five female athletes, table tennis four males and four females, and tennis two males and two females.
Prof. Ogunsola emphasized UNILAG’s commitment to ensuring a successful event, underscoring the university’s role in promoting student-athlete development and showcasing Africa’s talent. The Vice Chancellor also noted that the games would be a platform for student-athletes to demonstrate their skills and dedication.
Preparations at UNILAG’s sports complex are well underway, with improvements to facilities including freshly painted surroundings and well-maintained tracks and football pitches. The opening ceremony is set for September 21 at the Sports Complex, while the closing ceremony will be held at LASU in Ojo on September 28.