OAU unveils ₦15m revamped tennis court ahead of West African University Games
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has unveiled a fully refurbished tennis court as part of its preparations for the 2026 West African University Games (WAUG), with exactly 100 days remaining before the opening ceremony of the regional sporting event.
The renovated facility, which had fallen into disrepair over the years, was officially commissioned on Tuesday and is expected to serve as one of the key venues for the Games. The project forms part of the university’s ongoing efforts to upgrade sporting infrastructure ahead of hosting athletes and officials from across West Africa.
The transformation of the tennis court was initiated by a doctoral student from the United Kingdom, Ms. Garlina Gardiner, who raised funds for the project after visiting the university for academic research. Gardiner reportedly sold her artworks to raise an initial £7,000, while additional donations increased the total fundraising effort to over £11,000, supporting a renovation project valued at more than ₦15 million.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor of OAU, Prof. Adebayo Simeon Bamire, described the project as evidence of what could be achieved through commitment and collective support for educational institutions.
“We have had gaps here for years. It takes the grace of God and committed individuals to get things done. Some people made efforts in the past, but today we are celebrating a successful outcome,” Bamire said while commending members of the university’s Sports Council and technical team for delivering the project.
The vice-chancellor also challenged alumni and other stakeholders to contribute to the development and sustainability of the university’s facilities. According to him, there is a need not only to upgrade sporting infrastructure but also to ensure proper maintenance and explore opportunities for revenue generation.
The commissioning ceremony featured the rendition of the National Anthem and the Great Ife Anthem, followed by an exhibition tennis match on the newly resurfaced court. Guests were also taken on a tour of major sporting facilities on campus, including the football field and swimming pool, as part of preparations for WAUG 2026.
Among dignitaries present at the event were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Akinfala; the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Aderonmu; Chairman of the Sports Council, Prof. Oyelade; and other principal officers of the university.
