West Africa University Games,.WAUG 2026, are underway at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria.
The competition’s opening ceremony on October 2nd brought together university leaders, sports administrators, athletes and officials.
The official curtain raiser also featured a colourful parade of delegations, cultural performances and lighting of the Games’ flame.
The ceremony also celebrated the rich cultural heritage of the host city Ile-Ife.
The folklore showcased traditional performances and unveiling of the Games’ mascot, Ori-Olokun, inspired by symbols of the host city’s Yoruba heritage.
11 institutions are flying the Nigerian flag at the this year’s Games themed “Uniting Universities, Inspiring Excellence.”
The schools include hosts Obafemi Awolowo University, Afe Babalola University, Benson Idahosa University, Delta State University, among others.
Over 2,500 athletes and officials from 50 universities in the region will battle it out for honours in 18 sports from 2-12 October 2026.
