OAU wins 2026 West African University Games with 122 medals as Ghana finishes second

1. Lead City University: 0 gold, 2 silver, 1 bronze — 3 medals

2. University of Ilesa: 0 gold, 1 silver, 6 bronze — 7 medals

3. Plateau State University: 0 gold, 1 silver, 1 bronze — 2 medals

4. Federal University of Agriculture and Technology, Okeho: 0 gold, 0 silver, 4 bronze — 4 medals

5. Federal University of Technology, Akure: 0 gold, 0 silver, 3 bronze — 3 medals

OAU highlights youth development as games’ lasting benefit

In a report published on its website on October 5, 2026, OAU disclosed that the opening ceremony attracted representatives from 50 universities, with more than 1,500 athletes and officials expected to take part in competitions across 18 sports.

The university’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, described the sporting event as an opportunity to support young people’s development beyond the competition itself.

“For OAU, the Games are an investment in the future of our youth,” Bamire said at the opening ceremony.

He added that the host institution hoped the facilities, infrastructure and organisational systems put in place for the competition would continue to serve the university community after the event ended.

West African University Games President Ibrahim Tanko Shaibu also urged competitors to demonstrate commitment while upholding the principles of sportsmanship.

“Give your best, respect your opponents and officials,” Shaibu told the athletes, according to the university’s report.

In another announcement published on October 11, OAU said the closing ceremony would recognise the performances of athletes and participating institutions while celebrating the values of fair play, resilience and friendship fostered throughout the competition.

The 15th West African University Games were scheduled to take place from October 2 to 12 at OAU, Ile-Ife.