The host institution secured 33 gold, 50 silver and 39 bronze medals to claim the title ahead of the University of Ghana, which finished second with 59 medals, including 26 gold, 21 silver and 12 bronze.

Benson Idahosa University came third with 21 gold, 10 silver and seven bronze medals, while the University of Ibadan finished fourth despite winning 42 medals, comprising 17 gold, 12 silver and 13 bronze.

The rankings were determined primarily by the number of gold medals won, with silver and bronze medals used to distinguish institutions where necessary.

The competition brought together universities from Nigeria and other West African countries for sporting contests aimed at promoting student athletics, regional cooperation and friendship.

According to OAU, the Games were scheduled to run from October 2 to 12, 2026, at its Ile-Ife campus in Osun State. The university said 50 institutions were involved, with more than 1,500 athletes and officials expected to participate across 18 sports.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, OAU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, described the event as an investment in young people. He also expressed the hope that facilities and systems developed for the competition would continue to benefit the university community after the Games.

West African University Games President Ibrahim Tanko Shaibu urged competitors to give their best while respecting fellow athletes and match officials.

OAU’s closing ceremony announcement highlighted the achievements of participating institutions and athletes, as well as the values of fair play, resilience and friendship demonstrated throughout the competition.

The final standings placed OAU at the top, followed by the University of Ghana and Benson Idahosa University, underlining the strong performances of both Nigerian and Ghanaian institutions at the regional university sporting event.