The 15th edition of the West African University Games begins today, Friday, October 2026, at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife.

Student-athletes from West Africa’s Universities will compete in various sports, including football, basketball, boxing, swimming, table tennis, and badminton, among others.

The host university is not unfamiliar with hosting such an event, having previously hosted the 6th edition in 1975. Obafemi also hosted the Nigerian University Games (NUGA) in 2014.

Hence, preparations have been ongoing, with improvements to sporting facilities, transportation arrangements, and medical services.

The event provides University students across the West African region to showcase their sporting talents and also engage in cultural exchange and integration.

Organisers unveiled the official logo and mascot of the event in August, drawing inspiration from the cultural heritage of the ancient city of Ile-Ife.

The official mascot, inspired by “Ori-Olokun,” was designed by a student of the University, while a student from the Lagos State University designed the logo, representing the organisers’ commitment to put students at the main attraction of the event.

The West African University Games will run from October 2 to 12, 2026 across various venues within the University campus.