By Nura Garba

Bayero University, Kano (BUK) secured two bronze medals in Judo at the ongoing Africa University Games (FASU), held at the University of Lagos. Abubakar Abdullahi from the Department of Anatomy and Aisha Olatunde from the Department of Cyber Security delivered impressive performances, adding to the university’s growing reputation in sports.

Abdullahi reached the semi-finals in the -58kg category after defeating Oyerinde Ilijah 2-0 in the quarterfinals. However, he narrowly missed out on a spot in the final, losing 2-1 in a closely contested match against Anthoney Jesemiah. Olatunde, competing in the -49kg category, also clinched a bronze medal, marking her debut in an international competition.

BUK’s Taekwondo coach, Ibrahim Yahuza, expressed his pride in the athletes, praising their efforts and achievement. "Winning these bronze medals on their first outing outside the university is a huge accomplishment. This will certainly motivate them to strive for even more in future competitions," he said.

Yahuza extended his gratitude to the university’s leadership, including Vice Chancellor Professor Sagir Adamu Abbas, Director of Sports Professor Rabiu Mohammed, and Chairman of the Sports Consultative Committee Professor Musa Garba, for their unwavering support of the university's sporting programs.

As the 11th  FASU Games continue, Professor Musa Garba, who also serves as a member of the FASU technical committee, highlighted the broad participation, with 42 universities—21 from African countries and 21 from Nigeria—competing. Coach Yahuza added that his attention has now shifted to the upcoming Nigerian University Games (NUGA) scheduled for next year at the University of Jos, where BUK athletes will look to build on their success.