The Deputy Vice-Chancellor Administration of the University of Ibadan, Professor Peter O. Olapegba, has charged delegates to the UI and University of Ghana Bilateral Games to allow the spirit of the bilateral games to extend beyond the sports field.
He spoke on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, while receiving the leaders of the delegation from the University of Ghana, participants of the bilateral games and officials of the University Sports Council during a courtesy visit.
He noted that the University of Ibadan and the University of Ghana share a similar history and year of foundation.
He said the delegates have, therefore, not come to visit the University of Ibadan but have come home.
Professor Olapegba stated that sports are wonderful because of their unifying factor.
He then welcomed the participants and encouraged them to explore the University’s tourist centres such as the Zoological and Botanical Gardens and other areas outside the campus.
The Chairman of the UI Sports Council, Professor M. A. Ajayi said hosting the bilateral games is a great thing, adding that the two universities have been interacting to showcase what sports stand for.
He explained that the bilateral games had been held for many years because sports, more than religion, are the opium of the masses.
According to him, bilateral games promote the exchange of cultural values and provide a leeway for introducing a new context of sport in the two universities.
Professor Ajayi explained that other universities not involved in the bilateral games are getting agitated to know the dynamics and collaboration between the two universities.
The leader of the delegates and Director of Sports, at the University of Ghana, Dr Bella Bello Bitugu said the development of the relationship between the two universities from sports to research areas is amazing.
He stated that bilateral games are not seen as a competition but as a fraternity.
He said the bilateral games could not be held in the last three years due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other matters. He expressed joy that this year is a reality and a success.
Dr. Bitugu explained that progress has been made in bilateral games, with debate and seminars being part of the activities newly introduced, while the Local Organising Committee is thinking of introducing more innovations to the bilateral games.
He announced that the University of Ghana is prepared and ready to host UI at the second leg of the bilateral games.
Dr. Bitugu appreciated the Universitáy of Ibadan for its hospitality and team spirit.
