FASU 2024 Concludes with Success as American University of Cairo Takes Top Honors

The 11th All Africa University Games (FASU 2024) concluded on Sunday, September 29, 2024, with an impressive display of athletic prowess and camaraderie, earning accolades for the co-hosts, the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and Lagos State University (LASU). Despite the challenging economic climate in the country, the two universities exceeded expectations during the nine-day continental sporting event.

The final medals table revealed a dominant performance by the American University, Cairo, which topped the rankings with an impressive haul of 46 Gold, 28 Silver, and 8 Bronze medals. LASU emerged as the first runner-up with 28 Gold, 30 Silver, and 26 Bronze, while UNILAG secured the second runner-up position, amassing 25 Gold, 33 Silver, and 40 Bronze medals.

During the closing ceremony at the Lagos State University Sports Complex in Ojo, FASU President Dr. Ashraf Sobhy expressed gratitude to the management of both universities for their successful hosting of the games, highlighting the contributions of committees, athletes, officials, and volunteers. Dr. Sobhy, represented by Ms. Tsitsi Muzuva, announced the appointment of the Vice-Chancellors of UNILAG and LASU, Professors Folasade Ogunsola and Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, as FASU Ambassadors until the next games scheduled for Egypt in 2026.

Dr. Sobhy emphasized that FASU 2024 had fostered lasting friendships among participants and reinforced unity among African universities. In her address, Professor Ogunsola remarked on the games' role in promoting teamwork, resilience, and respect among athletes, pledging UNILAG's commitment to integrating sports into education as a pathway for youth empowerment.

Professor Olatunji-Bello echoed these sentiments, citing the event's success as a testament to what reputable institutions can achieve through collaboration. Both Vice-Chancellors called on stakeholders to uphold values of friendship, respect, and fair play in future sporting endeavors.

Dr. Mohammed Bawa, President of the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA), praised UNILAG and LASU for surpassing benchmarks set during the 2022 FASU Games in Nairobi, Kenya. He highlighted the event's showcase of athletic excellence, talent discovery, and the emergence of new African champions.

In a goodwill message, Lagos State Governor Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Permanent Secretary Mr. Waheed Kasali, commended the co-hosts for their successful organization of the games, describing events like FASU as crucial for fostering unity and collaboration across Africa.

The closing ceremony featured cultural performances, awards for outstanding participants, and a march past by athletes, celebrating the achievements of all involved. The opening ceremony on September 21 marked the official commencement of the games, with Dr. Sobhy lighting the FASU torch at the UNILAG Sports Complex.

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