President Bola Tinubu has signed the National Anti-Doping Act into law, stepping up Nigeria’s commitment to clean sports. The bill, which had been delayed for nearly two decades, now aligns the country with global anti-doping regulations.
Mallam Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), expressed gratitude to the President for approving the bill swiftly.
“Mr. President has never hidden his desire to get this done and directed all parties to expedite actions. After nearly two decades of delays, this milestone has been achieved through his relentless push and commitment.”
The new law domesticates the International Convention Against Doping in Sport. It creates an independent body responsible for enforcing the World Anti-Doping Code in Nigeria.
Nigeria to Host World-Class Anti-Doping Laboratory
A key provision of the Act is the establishment of the Nigeria Anti-Doping Center. The center is expected to transform the country into a leading testing hub for Africa.
Mallam Dikko highlighted the importance of the new laboratory: “With this Act, Nigeria will become an anti-doping hub for Africa and the world, in line with the RHINSE framework. The President’s approval of funding for a world-class anti-doping laboratory in the 2025 Appropriations Act is a game-changer.”
Currently, African nations send their athletes’ samples abroad for testing, but Nigeria’s new facility will cut costs and generate revenue by offering testing services locally.
Strengthening Sports Integrity
The Act reinforces Nigeria’s commitment to fairness and integrity in sports. “Mr. President has reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to fair play. Our athletes must remain clean and free from banned substances at all times,” Dikko said.
The law is designed to protect athletes from unfair practices, ensure compliance with international anti-doping regulations, and enhance drug testing procedures. It also outlines the development of a National Anti-Doping Policy, aligning Nigeria with global standards.
The Director-General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, assured that the commission would work closely with relevant agencies to enforce the new regulations.
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