Abeokuta, Nigeria — The National Sports Commission (NSC) has reaffirmed its firm commitment to anti-doping compliance, announcing the disqualification of several athletes from the ongoing Gateway Games 2024 due to doping-related issues.
The announcement followed a joint strategic session of the Main Organising Committee and the Local Organising Committee of the 2024 National Sports Festival (NSF), where key resolutions were adopted in line with international standards.
Speaking on the development, NSC Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, emphasized the importance of clean competition, noting that any athlete flagged for anti-doping violations will not be eligible to compete for medals.
“The fight against doping is central to the Commission’s mission,” Hon. Olopade said. “Our resolve is to protect the integrity of Nigerian sports both locally and globally.”
He further commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for signing into law the National Anti-Doping Bill, describing it as a landmark move that positions Nigeria in alignment with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) code.
“This legislation marks a turning point. Its impact must be immediate, starting with our current festival,” he declared.
In compliance with this stance, the NSC released a list of athletes barred from medal participation due to doping infractions. They include:
1. Marcus Okon – Akwa Ibom (Para Athletics)
2. Ayabeke David Opeyemi – Bayelsa (Gymnastics)
3. Kareem Shukurat– Lagos (Kickboxing)
4. Omole Dolapo Joshua – Bayelsa (Kickboxing)
5. Ogunsemilore Cynthia – Bayelsa (Kickboxing)
6. Animashaun Sofia – Lagos (Para Powerlifting)
The NSC urged all participating states to ensure strict adherence to anti-doping standards and reiterated its dedication to fair play and athlete integrity.
By Enoch Odesola | January 2, 2025
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