By Samuel Akpan Live in Abeokuta
Six athletes facing anti-doping issues have been banned from competing for medals at the National Sports Festival, Gateway Games 2024, by the National Sports Commission (NSC).
This move, made clear after a joint meeting of the Main and Local Organising Committees on Monday, reinforces the NSC’s commitment to fair play.
NSC Director-General, Bukola Olopade, stated the decision is in line with global best practices and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) code, ensuring clean competition at the event.
“The issue of anti-doping is one important mandate of the Commission to ensure that Nigeria is devoid of drugs problems at both domestic and international competitions,” Olopade said.
Olopade also expressed delight over the recent passage and signing of the National Anti-Doping Bill by President Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying, “We are happy now that the National anti-doping law has finally been passed by our sports-loving President.
“The ripple effect of such a landmark feat must swiftly be felt in our sports starting with the current sports festival.”
Persecondnews correspondent covering the games, reports that the following athletes have been listed as having doping issues and are therefore barred from competing for medals:
– Marcus Okon (Akwa Ibom State, Para Athletics)
– Ayabeke David Opeyemi (Bayelsa State, Gymnastics)
– Kareem Shukurat (Lagos State, Kickboxing)
– Omole Dolapo Joshua (Bayelsa State, Kickboxing)
– Ogunsemilore Cynthia (Bayelsa State, Kickboxing)
– Animashaun Sofia (Lagos State, Para Powerlifting)
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