The 15th edition of the West African University Games (WAUG) opening ceremony, hosted at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU, officially commenced at around 4 p.m. on Saturday, 3rd October, where the musical icon, Dr Gbenga Falope, accompanied by musical orchestras, used music to welcome and entertain university officials, athletes, delegates, and other guests present at OAU main field, Mainbowl.
The Vice-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Professor Simeon Adebayo Bamire, arrived at the ceremony around 4:50 p.m. His arrival was accompanied by many guests, including several officials from OAU. Many guests from different universities, such as Pro-Chancellor Dr. Adejare Bello, Professor Taiwo Ashaolu, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilesha, Nigeria, the Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Ghana, Prof. Elliott Al -Hassan, the Pro-Chancellor of Oke-Oho, Prof. Olaniyi Jacob Babayemi, the President of the Ghana University Association, and the President of WAUG, Mr. Ibrahim Tanko Shaibu, Professor Musa Yinka, the NUGA President, and many others, attended the ceremony.
The competition’s welcoming ceremony started after a paramilitary parade, which was led by the female Chief Commander of OAU, followed by the parade of the universities that were in attendance out of the expected 50 universities that will be participating in the competition. Afe Babalola University led the university parade, followed by Benson Idahosa University, with the likes of Delta State University, LAUTECH, University of Ilesha, University of Development Studies, Ghana, University of Energy and Natural Resources, Ghana, Plateau State University, University of Abuja, Federal University of Agriculture, Oke-Oho, and Leeds City University.
From the participating universities, some athletes also expressed their expectations as the competition begins. Siaw Klainsmann from the University of Energy and Natural Resources said he has been feeling okay since they arrived because the school environment is beautiful and pleasant. He added that his team is willing to win the tournament.
Ola Enoch from Leeds City University, Ibadan, said he is here to do his best and be the best as the competition fully begins. Also, Olajuwon Oluwatobiloba Solomon from Leeds City University, who plays football, said he is prepared to be victorious in the WAUG competition. He also said the environment is good and pleasant.
Besides parades and sporting activities, cultural artists welcomed and entertained guests with cultural dances, which were led by Diola Faleye, an Associate Professor in the Department of Linguistics.
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The University Vice-Chancellor, in his speech, commended the presence and support of his wife, Madam Felicia Abosede Bamire. He also commended Professor Abiodun Akinfala for his coordinating efforts in making WAUG a success and sent his warm regards to other school officials in attendance, such as the University Bursar, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Abogan, and the University Librarian, Dr. Olukemi Fadehan.
Professor Abiodun Akinfala, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of OAU who is saddled with the administration of the WAUG programme, said the programme is more than just a sports competition, as it serves as a platform to promote unity, healthy competition, and excellence among young people across West Africa.
He further said the university is making preparations not only to host the games but also to set a benchmark for the University of Nigeria. He added that the essence of the programme is to create a memorable experience for the students and guests.
In addition, the Vice-Chancellor also stressed that the sports facilities and systems being strengthened for WAUG are intended to continue serving the students. He concluded by appreciating those who have contributed to the university and the games at large, such as TETFund, the Federal Government, the Federal Ministry of Education, the Nigeria University Games Association, the West African University Games Association, and many others.
The Pro-Chancellor, Professor Adejare, also advised the athletes towards sportsmanship, fairness, and respect for their opponents. The ceremony was concluded with the lighting and oath-taking around 6:31 p.m. Adegboyega Olufunmilayo pledged discipline and sportsmanship, while the leader representing the officiating body also promised fairness throughout the competition.
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