The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has announced plans to complete a dedicated 240-bed hostel for student-athletes by the fourth quarter of 2026 — a major step toward improving welfare and accommodation for sportsmen and women representing the institution.
Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade T. Ogunsola, disclosed this during a meet-and-greet session with UNILAG’s contingent of athletes and officials who represented the university at the 27th Nigeria University Games Association (NUGA) Games in Jos, Plateau State.
Ogunsola acknowledged the challenges posed by rising accommodation costs and broader economic pressures on students, reaffirming UNILAG’s commitment to supporting the holistic development of its student-athletes.
Challenges at NUGA 2025
Presenting a detailed report, Professor Alabi Sebili Soneye, Chairman of the UNILAG Sports Council, highlighted logistical and administrative hurdles that affected the university’s performance at the 2025 Games.
He identified accreditation delays and registration bottlenecks within the NUGA web-based system as major setbacks, which led to several top-performing athletes being excluded despite full compliance during qualification.
Accommodation shortages also disrupted pre-Games training schedules, while clashes between academic timetables and training sessions further compounded the team’s preparations.
From 440 to 50: A Story of Resilience
Out of 440 athletes initially registered, only 289 were cleared by the NUGA Technical Committee. Subsequent accreditation issues reduced that number to 166, and after the Zone A preliminaries, just 53 athletes advanced to compete.
Ultimately, UNILAG fielded a determined team of 50 athletes and 20 officials, embarking on a grueling 32- to 36-hour road trip to Jos. Despite the odds, their resolve and sportsmanship earned wide commendation.
Medal Tally and Standings
At the close of the Games:
- Benson Idahosa University (BIU) emerged overall champions with 25 gold, 6 silver, and 3 bronze medals.
- University of Jos (host) claimed second with 18 gold and 50 total medals.
- University of Benin finished third, securing 15 gold and 34 total medals.
UNILAG athletes brought home 22 medals across multiple disciplines, excelling in taekwondo, boxing, and judo — areas where the university’s sports program continues to shine.
“The results underscore the depth of talent within UNILAG, especially in combat and individual sports,” he noted.