The Story Behind OAU’s Motion Ground

Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) is undeniably one of the most prestigious universities in Nigeria and a landmark of excellence globally. Beyond its academic achievements, one of the things that make OAU truly unique is its breathtaking architectural designs—structures that command admiration and respect from both visitors and students alike.

Take a walk through the campus, and you’ll be met with astonishing buildings like the grand Senate Building, the intricate Spider, the towering Pharmacy Building, the majestic AJOSE Lecture Theatre, and the historic Natural History Museum, among many others. Each structure tells a story—one of innovation, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to academic excellence.

But OAU’s beauty isn’t just about buildings. The university boasts breathtaking landscapes, lush gardens, and cool relaxation spots that make campus life even more enjoyable. One of the most popular among them is Motion Ground—a name that every OAU student and staff member knows but only a few truly understand. It’s a place where students gather to unwind, socialize, and catch a break from their academic hustle. But have you ever stopped to wonder—why is it called Motion Ground?

If you’ve never known the answer, sit tight because this story is about to take you back in time.

A Trip Back to the 90s – The Era of Style and Nostalgia

Imagine OAU in the 1990s—a time when the campus was filled with students rocking Afro hairstyles, baggy trousers, vintage shirts, and classic two-tone shoes. It was an era of raw vibes, simpler lifestyles, and unfiltered moments. The university, already in its golden years, was home to some of the most vibrant youth in the country, and every spot on campus had its own story.

Now, let’s zoom in on a particular part of OAU—the space we now call Motion Ground. During this time, there was a unique kind of camera that was all the rage. Unlike regular cameras that required you to pose and stay still, this camera had the special ability to capture people in motion—whether they were walking, running, or making dramatic movements.

It was an innovation that fascinated students, and it quickly became a campus sensation. But there was one group that loved it the most—the ladies.

The Camera That Changed Everything

We all know how much people love taking pictures, but in the 90s, this was on another level. Female students especially loved this motion camera, and it became a trend to get photos taken while walking or making stylish movements. It was a way to capture the essence of the moment—a picture that wasn’t just a still image but a story in itself.

Now, just like the passport vendors we see around Motion Ground today who call out, “passport, passport, passport” to passing students, the motion photographers had their own way of drawing in customers. They would call out repeatedly, “motion, motion, motion!” trying to get students to take pictures on the go.

Over time, the name stuck. Students started referring to that location as “Motion Ground”, and just like that, a new legacy was born.

The Name That Stood the Test of Time

Fast forward to today, decades later, and Motion Ground is still Motion Ground. Even though the iconic motion camera photographers are long gone, their impact remains. The name has been passed down from one generation of OAU students to another, and it continues to live on as a symbol of history, culture, and the vibrant social life that makes OAU one of the most unique universities in Nigeria.

So, the next time you find yourself at Motion Ground, take a moment to appreciate the history behind the name. It’s not just a place—it’s a memory, a reminder of a time when a simple camera turned an ordinary space into a legendary landmark.

What did you think “Motion Ground” meant before reading this? Share your thoughts in the comments! We’d love to hear from you.

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