11th FASU Games: LASU Vice Chancellor Expresses Gratitude After Historic Co-hosting

The Vice Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU), Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, has expressed her heartfelt appreciation to the university community following the successful co-hosting of the 11th Federation of African University Sports (FASU) Games. In a statement released on Monday, September 30, 2024, the Vice Chancellor reflected on the monumental achievement of LASU, marking the first international competition hosted in the university’s 41-year history.

The FASU Games, held in collaboration with the University of Lagos (UNILAG), came to a grand conclusion on Sunday, September 29, 2024, with a closing ceremony that celebrated weeks of intense sporting competition. Professor Olatunji-Bello lauded the entire LASU community, including staff, students, athletes, and volunteers, for their dedication and hard work in making the event a resounding success.

In her note of appreciation, the Vice Chancellor highlighted the challenges the university overcame in co-hosting such a large-scale international event, describing it as a “glorious dawn” for LASU. She remarked that the experience had brought the university into the spotlight, with LASU emerging as the first runners-up in the overall rankings and as the top-performing Nigerian institution at the Games.

“The gains of our hosting are numerous, some immediate and some in the future,” Professor Olatunji-Bello noted. “But there is no doubt that LASU has become better for it.”

She extended special praise to LASU’s athletes, who she referred to as the university’s “worthy ambassadors,” for their outstanding performances in competing with some of the best athletes from across Africa. Regardless of the medals won, the Vice Chancellor celebrated the athletes as “champions” and a reflection of the excellence that defines LASU.

Additionally, Professor Olatunji-Bello expressed her gratitude to members of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), led by her Deputy, Professor Adenike Boyo, for their tireless efforts in ensuring the smooth execution of the Games. She also acknowledged the sacrifices made by the university’s students, particularly the volunteers who played pivotal roles throughout the event.

The Vice Chancellor did not forget to recognize the crucial support provided by the Lagos State Government, especially Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hon. Tolani Sule. Their backing was instrumental in LASU’s ability to successfully co-host the competition.

In closing, Professor Olatunji-Bello urged the university community to continue striving for excellence, noting that the success of the FASU Games was a clear demonstration of what could be achieved when everyone works together.

“The last few months have shown that if we are determined and work together, we can move mountains,” she concluded.

The 11th FASU Games, which began on September 21, 2024, brought together athletes from universities across Africa for a week of sporting excellence, culminating in a memorable closing ceremony that celebrated the achievements of all participants and marked a new chapter in LASU’s history.

• LASU successfully co-hosted the 11th FASU Games with UNILAG.
• LASU emerged as first runners-up and top Nigerian institution in the competition.
• The university’s athletes and volunteers were lauded for their outstanding contributions.
• The Vice Chancellor expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Government for its support.

As the curtains fall on this historic event, LASU looks forward to further building on the momentum and setting new standards of excellence in both academics and sports.