The West African University Games (WAUG), being held at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), presents an impeccable fusion of learning, innovation, and culture in a grand historical  style.

Every intricate detail of the event and its symbolic representations amplifies the originality of WAUG.

A few years back, the FESTAC ’77 held in Nigeria had the royal ivory mask of Benin as its symbol, showing off the beautiful African culture. Similarly, the WAUG being hosted by OAU has the “Ori Olokun”, a symbol of territorrial leadership and wealth, on the mascot’s head.

In so many Yoruba sculptures, the exaggerated head represents the high and refined proficiency of the Yorubas, that the head is most important being, the seat of wisdom and vision, which perfectly aligns with OAU’s motto, “for learning and culture.” Despite the post colonial advancements, the enduring presence of culture is still exhibited by the prominence of the mascot’s head.

The colorful sportswear as well showcases resilience and Innovation, the symbolism of yellow-orange and blue colours on the sports wear is an impactful complementary scheme on the colour wheel. This choice speaks of the balance of energy control like the Yin and Yang, representing a tactical strategy of being able to balance defence and offense, depending on the demands of the game. It is also reminiscent of Sun Tzu’s wise saying:  “Strategy without tactics is the slowest route to victory. Tactics without strategy is the noise before defeat.”

A cape always symbolizes power, just as in superhero movies. Being seats of knowledge, which is power, universities impart knowledge to the society, thereby producing real-world superheroes. Even Nelson Mandela emphasized: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

As the eyes cannot ignore beauty and authority of ‘the blacks’ as seen in the black gloves that covered the hands that held the ace. Like the statue of liberty holding an ace represents authority wherever it is seen.

Despite Africa being referred to as the dark continent, Africa has not only shown forth beauty in culture and environment but also in remarkable achievements across various fields, from sports icons like Asisat Oshoala, to business magnates like Aliko Dangote, and musical sensations like Davido, Burna Boy, and Wizkid.

The white boots worn by the mascot narrates how Obafemi Awolowo University is standing upon truth and integrity. An alignment with the biblical truth in 2 Corinthians 13:8, “For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth.”

The mascot’s outfit hints us about the deep values of our culture such as integrity, resilience, boldness, determination and equality which is not only the bedrock of the universities but also the standards on which WAUG stand upon.