In an outstanding display of talent and dedication, six students of the University of Ilorin have earned their qualifications to compete in the highly anticipated FISU World University Games in China between July 28 and August 8 this year.

This was disclosed by the University's Director of Sport, Prof. Tajudeen Ibraheem, in a memo to the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN.

Prof. Ibraheem said that the six UNILORIN athletes were among the 12 that participated at the trials hosted by the University of Benin between May 8 and May 14, 2023.

Prof. Ibraheem thanked the Vice Chancellor and his entire management team for the support the athletes and officials received before and during the trial competition in Benin City.

The outstanding athletes are Musa Nurain, Latoya Alabi, Ruqayyah Mustapha, Fareedah Aderibigbe, Usman Qudus Afolabi, and Sofiat Obanishola.

At the trial competition in Benin City, Musa Nurain, a student of the Department of Educational Technology, won two gold medals in 100m and 200m race. Nurain, an electrifying sprinter, has become a force to be reckoned with on the track following his blistering speed and unwavering determination.

Joining Nurain in the field events are Latoya Alabi and Ruqayyah Mustapha, who have secured their qualifications in both the javelin throw and the discus throw. Ms Alabi and Ms Mustapha, both of the Department of Human Kinetics Education, picked gold medals, in their respective events.

Fareedah Aderibigbe of the Department of English, known for her martial arts prowess in the combat game, recorded a gold medal in the mat event of taekwondo (Batan 53KG). In 2022, Ms Aderibigbe, complemented by the remarkable achievements of her teammates, helped the UNILORIN Taekwando team, to make a historical feat by emerging as the top most ranked side at the Nigeria University Games (NUGA) hosted by the University of Lagos.

In the realm of racquet sports, Usman Qudus Afolabi of the Department of Human Kinetics Education earned his qualification in badminton (male category). Armed with lightning reflexes and exceptional hand-eye coordination, Afolabi emerged as a dominant player on the court as he qualified among the best four.

In the female category, Sofiat Obanishola's finesse and strategic prowess propelled her to the top of her game as she recorded wins in all her games. Ms Obanishola, a student of the Department of Human Kinetics Education, is poised to make a lasting impression on the badminton court, challenging the world's best university players.

The World University Games, widely regarded as the pinnacle of university-level sports competitions, will see thousands of student-athletes from around the globe gather to showcase their skills and represent their educational institutions. Held biennially, the event serves as a platform for young athletes to display their abilities and potentially launch their careers in their chosen sports.