By Gabriella Ogbu
As the 11th All Africa University Games (FASU) approach, the Lagos State Police Command has pledged robust security support for athletes, officials, and attendees. The event, set to take place in September, will be co-hosted by the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Akoka and Lagos State University (LASU) Ojo.
Mr. Fayoade Adegoke Mustapha, the recently appointed Lagos Police Commissioner, made this commitment during a visit by Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, the Vice Chancellor of LASU, to the police headquarters in Ikeja. Mustapha emphasized the critical role of the police in ensuring the safety and security of the event, noting that any security lapses could tarnish the nation’s image.
“Our primary duty is to provide security,” Mustapha stated. “If athletes from all over Africa come to Lagos and leave without a compelling, positive narrative, it will reflect poorly on our nation. Therefore, we are going to be deeply involved in the sports festival.”
The FASU Games will bring together over 3,000 students and administrators from various African universities, competing in a wide array of sports including athletics, badminton, chess, judo, table tennis, karate, taekwondo, swimming, basketball, football, volleyball, and handball. This will be the second time Nigeria hosts these prestigious games.
In addition to pledging support for the upcoming games, Mustapha expressed gratitude for the recent period of tranquility at LASU, promising continued support to maintain this peaceful atmosphere.
Professor Olatunji-Bello congratulated Mustapha on his new role and expressed confidence in his ability to provide the necessary security for the games. She highlighted the significance of his LASU alumni status, which she believes will foster a deeper commitment to the university’s needs.
“All participants traveling from various African countries for the games are hoping for a safe and successful event,” Olatunji-Bello noted. “That is what LASU and our co-host UNILAG are praying for, and we are grateful for the police’s support in making this possible.”
The FASU Games aim to promote unity and cultural exchange among African universities through sports.
