By: Lauretta Fagbohun, Abeokuta.
The National Sports Commission (NSC) has disqualified six athletes from competing for medals at the ongoing Gateway Games 2024, following anti-doping violations.
Those affected are Marcus Okon (Para Athletics, Akwa Ibom), Ayabeke Opeyemi (Gymnastics, Bayelsa), Kareem Shukurat (Kickboxing, Lagos), Ogunsemilore Cynthia (Kickboxing, Bayelsa), Animashaun Sofia (Para Powerlifting, Lagos), and Omole Joshua (Kickboxing, Bayelsa).
The decision was reached during a joint meeting between the Main Organising Committee and the Local Organising Committee of the festival held on Monday.
According to a statement issued by the Commission’s Director of Press, Mrs. Kehinde Ajayi, the action aligns with international standards and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) code.
Director General of the NSC, Bukola Olopade, emphasized the Commission’s commitment to fair play and clean competition. He urged all participating states to ensure their athletes adhere strictly to anti-doping regulations.
“Anti-doping compliance remains a core priority for the Commission. Our goal is to rid Nigerian sports of drug-related issues at both national and international levels,” Olopade stated.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing the National Anti-Doping Law, describing it as a landmark step in promoting integrity in Nigerian sports.
“The positive impact of this legislation must be evident, beginning with the Gateway Games,” he added.
