The National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced the disqualification of six registered athletes from participating in medal events at the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival, Gateway Games 2024, over antidoping violations.
The decision was disclosed on Monday following a strategic meeting between the Main Organising Committee and the Local Organising Committee of the festival, which is being hosted in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
According to the NSC, the ban aligns with international standards and adheres strictly to the code of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).
Speaking on the development, the Director-General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, emphasized the Commission’s zero-tolerance stance on drug use in sports.
“The issue of antidoping is a key mandate for the Commission. We are committed to ensuring a clean and fair environment for all athletes in both domestic and international competitions,” Olopade said.
He also lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing Nigeria’s National Antidoping Law, adding that its implementation would begin in earnest with the current Sports Festival.
“We are happy that the National Antidoping Law has finally been passed by our sports-loving President. Its ripple effect must be seen immediately, starting with Gateway Games 2024,” he added.
The six athletes disqualified for antidoping issues include:
Marcus Okon – Para Athletics (Akwa Ibom State)
Ayabeke David Opeyemi – Gymnastics (Bayelsa State)
Kareem Shukurat – Kickboxing (Lagos State)
Omole Dolapo Joshua – Kickboxing (Bayelsa State)
Ogunsemilore Cynthia – Kickboxing (Bayelsa State)
Animashaun Sofia – Para Powerlifting (Lagos State)
The NSC has urged all participating states and athletes to comply fully with antidoping regulations to maintain the integrity of Nigerian sports.
