The National Sports Commission (NSC) has disqualified six athletes from the 22nd National Sports Festival for anti-doping violations, in line with global standards
[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced the disqualification of six athletes from the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival, dubbed ‘Gateway Games’, due to anti-doping violations.
Also read: Bukola Olopade appoints key aides to boost National Sports Commission’s vision
NSC Director-General Bukola Olopade revealed the disqualifications in Abeokuta, stating that athletes with anti-doping issues are barred from competing for medals.
The decision was made following a joint meeting of the main organising committee and the local organising committee.
The NSC emphasised that this action aligns with global best practices and the World Anti-Doping Agency code.
The issue of anti-doping is one important mandate of the commission to ensure that Nigeria is devoid of drug problems at both domestic and international competitions.
Mr Olopade urged participating states to take note of the disqualifications and reiterated the commission’s commitment to ensuring clean competition.
“The issue of anti-doping is one important mandate of the commission to ensure that Nigeria is devoid of drug problems at both domestic and international competitions,” he said.
He also highlighted the recent passing of the national anti-doping law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stating, “We are happy now that the national anti-doping law has finally been passed by our sports-loving President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ripple effect of such a landmark feat must swiftly be felt in our sports, starting with the current National Sports Festival.”
Also read: ‘It’s pertinent to have top quality’ Mouka joins National Sports Festival as official bedding partner
The disqualified athletes are:
Marcus Okon (Akwa Ibom, para-athletics)
Ayabeke Opeyemi (Bayelsa, gymnastics)
Shukurat Kareem (Lagos, kickboxing)
Omole Dolapo Joshua (Bayelsa, kickboxing)
Ogunsemilore Cynthia (Bayelsa, kickboxing)
Animashaun Sofia (Lagos, para-powerlifting)
Peculiar Adirika is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
