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GHANA CROWNED KING AT WAUG

The 15th edition of the West African University Games (WAUG) concluded in a blaze of glory on December 22nd, leaving behind a trail of athletic triumphs, heartwarming camaraderie, and valuable lessons for the future of university sports in the region. Held at the historic Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), the games saw student-athletes from 22 West African universities battle it out in a vibrant display of sportsmanship across disciplines like basketball, table tennis, and athletics.

WAUG

While the University of Ghana emerged as the undisputed champions, securing a glittering haul of 10 gold, 8 silver, and 3 bronze medals, WAUG 2023 was about much more than just the medal tally. The event, aptly themed “Promoting Unity and Excellence through Sports,” emphasized participation and fostering unity, as OAU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Simeon Bamire eloquently stated in his closing ceremony speech: “WAUG transcends winning medals; it’s about building bridges and fostering relationships between universities across West Africa.”

Beyond the overall championship win, WAUG was a kaleidoscope of individual brilliance and collective exuberance. The OAU basketball team’s nail-biting 19-16 victory over UNIABUJA sent home fans into a frenzy, showcasing the fierce determination and electrifying athleticism that resonated throughout the competition.

WAUG also witnessed a changing of the guard, with Mr. Ibrahim Tanko from the University for Development Studies retaining his position as President at the helm of a newly elected leadership team. This fresh perspective promises to propel university sports in West Africa to even greater heights, as Tanko declared: “The future of WAUG is brimming with potential. We have the talent, the passion, and the drive to achieve remarkable things.”

NCBOAU

However, the games were not without their challenges. Some athletes faced personal adversity, including the heartbreaking loss of a family member during the competition. These moments served as poignant reminders of the human stories behind the athletic prowess on display. Prof. Bamire, in his closing remarks, urged participants to embrace these challenges as lessons in resilience and the importance of community support: “We must learn to stand together, not just in times of victory, but also in times of hardship.”

As the final curtain fell on WAUG 2023, the echoes of cheers, the gleam of medals, and the spirit of camaraderie continued to reverberate across the OAU campus. The games served as a powerful testament to the unifying power of sports and the shared values of excellence, fair play, and mutual respect that bind the West African university community.

Read also: OAU FASA MEETS NEW STUDENTS

With the spirit of WAUG still fresh, the future of university sports in West Africa appears bright. As Shaibu Tanko, WAUG President, concluded with optimism: “Let us use the lessons learned and the energy generated from this event to push forward and elevate university sports to even greater heights. Together, we can achieve amazing things.

The 15th edition of WAUG may be over, but its legacy of athletic excellence, human connection, and unwavering commitment to the development of university sports in West Africa will continue to inspire future generations of student-athletes and sports enthusiasts in the region.

By: Ojediran Peter Boluwatife

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