WAUG 2026: Assistant Secretary General Explains Strict Accreditation Rules, Confirms 50 Universities for Games and Host Readiness

The Assistant Secretary General of the West African University Games (WAUG), Prof. Boluwaji G. Jayesimi, has explained the strict accreditation requirements being enforced ahead of the 15th edition of the Games, with 50 universities already confirmed their interest in the competition.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with ALLINEWS, Prof. Jayesimi told Adekunle Gloria (host) the accreditation process is designed to ensure that only eligible university students participate, particularly given WAUG’s connection to the Federation of Africa University Sports (FASU) and the International University Sports Federation (FISU).

He explained that for the sake of the direct affiliation with these bodies, athletes must fall within the required age bracket and be genuine students of the institutions they represent. According to him, WAUG is very transparent about its strict age policy to prevent universities from bringing in non-student professional athletes or hiring national champions just to win medals.

“For WAUG to be a huge success, we have put in place some accreditation processes, such as the requirement that the age bracket of athletes must not be more than 25 years. We are strict about this so that we do not allow [non-bonafide] athletes to be brought in just to win medals".

According to Prof. Jayesimi, participating athletes are required to provide documentation supporting their student status, including their admission letters, evidence of school fees payment, and documents showing that they are registered for the current academic session. He added that these measures are important because WAUG serves as part of the pathway towards higher levels of university sport, with African university competitions feeding into the global university sports system.

“WAUG feeds directly into the All-Africa University Games and then the World University Games (FISU), which has a strict rule that athletes must be between 17-25 years old and must be a registered student. So WAUG must enforce the same standard, otherwise West African athletes will be disqualified at the world level.”

Prof. Jayesimi also disclosed that as of September 29, when the interview was held, about 50 universities across West Africa had registered interest for the 2026 edition of WAUG ahead of the October 2 arrival. He said the final accreditation deadline is October 2, the same day the contingents are expected to arrive. The Asst. Secretary General explained that document accreditation checks were largely done remotely to avoid universities travelling with contingents that would not be allowed to participate, warning participating institutions that failure to complete the process within the stipulated period could affect their participation.

Speaking on the hosts, the Assistant Secretary General expressed confidence in the readiness of host institution Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, to receive the participating contingents. He revealed that arrangements have been made for the accommodation and transportation of athletes and officials, with the host institution prepared to provide the visiting universities with a worthwhile experience during the Games. When asked about the ceremonial part of the occasion, Prof. Jayesimi disclosed that the opening ceremony is expected to take place by 4pm on Saturday October 3rd.

The presence of senior university sports officials is also expected to add to the significance of the event, with the FASU President expected to be part of the 15th West Africa University Games. Prof. Jayesimi encouraged young athletes hoping to participate in future editions of WAUG to focus on their education and gain admission into universities. He added that there is some newness with the organisation and its operations. As he concluded. Prof. Jayesimi described WAUG as a platform that promotes unity among universities across West Africa while providing opportunities for young athletes to showcase their abilities.

“WAUG is big on bringing out university talents. WAUG is more than willing to make that [visibility] happen. We are expecting them. Every aspect of the event is mind-blowing. I wish all athletes a worthwhile time as they represent their universities at this West African event. See you there

The 15th West Africa University Games will take place at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, with participating universities from across the region expected to compete in 17 different sporting events, including e-sports.