McPherson University Hosts First International NPUGA Workshop on Wearable Technology in Sports

McPherson University hosted the inaugural International Workshop of the Nigeria Private University Games Association (NPUGA) on wearable technology in sports, with participants arriving on Thursday, 22nd January, and the main workshop activities taking place on Friday, 23rd January 2026.

The workshop, themed “Wearable Technology for Performance Assessment and Monitoring in Sports,” brought together sports administrators, academics, scientists, and practitioners from private universities across Nigeria. It provided a platform for sharing insights on how technology can enhance athletic performance, health monitoring, and sports management.

In his keynote address, Vice-Chancellor Professor Francis Igbasan welcomed participants and lauded NPUGA for its long-standing role in talent development and inter-university sporting relations. He also acknowledged the contributions of partner organizations, the Foundation for Global Community Health and Escola United. Professor Igbasan highlighted that wearable technology has evolved from basic gadgets to advanced tools capable of generating real-time biometric data, supporting data-driven coaching, athlete health monitoring, and inclusive sports development in Nigeria.

Guest speaker Professor Oladipo Oladele, President of the Nigerian Association for Sport Science & Medicine (NASSM), delivered a lecture on the application of wearable technology for performance improvement, assessment, and health monitoring, providing practical insights across multiple sports disciplines. Another session by Mr. Victor Agbagu, titled “The Science and Strategies in Sports Management and Officiating in Perspective,” explored the integration of technology, analytics, leadership, and sports psychology in sports management, emphasizing emotional intelligence and effective communication with Gen Z athletes.

Over 15 private universities participated in the workshop, including Babcock University, Achievers University, Christopher University, Bells University, Pan-Atlantic University, Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Adeleke University, Bowen University, Redeemer’s University, Fountain University, Crescent University, Trinity University, and Afe Babalola University.

NPUGA President Dr. Diyaolu Babajide commended McPherson University for providing a conducive and serene environment for both academic and sporting engagements.