UI Wins and Hosts 8th Afro Varsity 3x3 Basketball Championship, Qualifies for Global Finals

University of Ibadan has emerged champions of the male category at the 8th Afro Varsity 3x3 Basketball Challenge, which the institution also hosted under the supervision of the Federation of Africa University Sports (FASU).

By virtue of their victory, the University of Ibadan men’s team has secured qualification to represent Africa at the 2026 International University Sports Federation (FISU) University World Cup 3x3 Basketball scheduled to hold in Macau, China, in October 2026.

The two-day continental tournament brought together 16 male teams and 12 female teams from universities across Africa, reinforcing the competition’s status as a key platform for talent development, cultural exchange, and youth integration through sport.

Speaking at the opening ceremony on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, fspsp, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor Peter O. Olapegba, described the event as more than a sporting contest, noting that it represents a convergence point for African youth development, leadership formation, and cross-border collaboration.

He emphasized that university sports play a strategic role in building discipline, teamwork, leadership capacity, and mutual respect among students, while also complementing academic development within higher education institutions.

The Secretary General of FASU, Mrs. Peninnah Kabenge, described the 3x3 format as a fast-rising sporting model that reflects speed, innovation, and resilience—qualities she said mirror the aspirations of African youth. She added that the championship serves as a platform not only for competition but also for strengthening continental unity and leadership development.

The Acting President of the Nigeria University Games Association (NUGA), Dr. Ajibua Michael Alayode, highlighted the tournament’s role in talent discovery and national sports development, noting that many participants have gone on to represent their countries at international competitions, including the World University Games and the All-African Games.

Sixteen universities participated in the men’s category, including institutions from Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, Benin Republic, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Notable participants included Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Lagos, University of Ghana, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, University of Cape Coast, and others across the continent.

The University of Ibadan’s victory capped a successful hosting experience, with officials commending the Local Organizing Committee for delivering a well-coordinated championship that further strengthened the institution’s reputation in African university sports.

The win positions the University of Ibadan not only as a sporting powerhouse but also as a key representative of African university basketball on the global stage in 2026.