By Deborah Idowu
The University of Ibadan is taking steps to reposition sports as both a developmental and economic frontier, with plans to establish a Sports Academy that aims to identify and nurture athletic talent. This direction was articulated by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode Adebowale, at the inauguration of a committee constituted to develop the framework for the proposed University of Ibadan Sports Academy (UISA).
Speaking at the event, the Vice-Chancellor emphasised the growing global significance of sports as a structured industry, noting that in many developed societies, deliberate systems are in place to identify and develop talent from an early stage. Such systems, he observed, have consistently produced athletes capable of competing at the highest levels.
Professor Adebowale explained that the university’s initiative is designed to adopt a similar approach, one that integrates talent discovery with the broader economic opportunities embedded in sports. The committee, he added, has been tasked with outlining the modalities for establishing the academy, with a focus on sustainability and impact.
He further highlighted the strategic role of the University of Ibadan Staff School and the International School, Ibadan, describing them as critical foundations in the institution’s sports development architecture. Their inclusion in the committee, he noted, reflects an intention to build a structured pathway for early talent identification.
Expressing confidence in the committee, the Vice-Chancellor commended the expertise and versatility of its members, stating that their collective capacity would be instrumental in delivering on the university’s vision.
In his remarks, the convener of the committee, Professor Olufemi A. Adegbesan of the Department of Human Kinetics, described the initiative as a defining moment for sports development within the university. He noted that the proposed academy possesses strong prospects for sustainability, given the economic value of sports.
Professor Adegbesan also pointed out that while the university already has foundational facilities, there is significant potential for expansion and upgrade to meet competitive standards. He added that the establishment of a structured sports system could position the university as a notable exporter of athletic talent. He further expressed optimism that strategic partnerships and collaborations would play a key role in enhancing the academy’s development and ensuring it meets global benchmarks.
The committee draws its membership from relevant academic and administrative units of the university, reflecting a multidisciplinary approach to the initiative.
The Committee Members are:
Professor O. A. Adegbesan – Convener, Department of Human Kinetics
Professor O. A. Okunlola – Department of Geology
Professor A. O. Ige – Department of Physiology
Dr O. Adisa – Department of Human Kinetics
Dr A. M. Babalola – University Health Service
Y. Akintunde – Principal, International School, Ibadan
Hawau F. Adekanye – Headmistress, UI Staff School
Oluchi Ajibola – Secretary, University of Ibadan Sports Council
Credit: UI Directorate of Public Communication
