Six athletes have been disqualified from the 22nd National Sports Festival in Abeokuta for doping violations. This year’s competition is also called the Gateway Games 2025
The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Chief Bukola Olopade, made the announcement on Monday. He said the disqualification followed a strategic meeting between the Main Organising Committee and the Local Organising Committee.
Olopade said the action followed global anti-doping rules and the code of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).
“No athlete flagged for doping will be allowed to compete or win medals at the festival,” he said. “This is part of our commitment to upholding integrity in sports.”
The disqualified athletes are from Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, and Lagos States. They include participants in para athletics, gymnastics, kickboxing, and para powerlifting.
List of Athletes Disqualified for Doping
According to the NSC, the athletes disqualified are:
- 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
Each of these athletes tested positive for banned substances. The NSC said this was part of ongoing anti-doping testing being carried out during the games.
Commission Praises Anti-Doping Law and Tinubu’s Support
Chief Olopade praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing the National Anti-Doping Act into Law. He said it shows the government’s seriousness about clean sports in Nigeria.
“The ripple effects of this legislation must be felt now, starting with this festival,” he said.
This is the first major implementation of the new law since it was passed. The law criminalizes the use of banned substances in sports and empowers the NSC to enforce testing and punishment.
Organisers Promise More Testing and Monitoring
The NSC said its team is still monitoring athletes throughout the games. More tests will be conducted to catch anyone else who may try to cheat.
The commission warned that any athlete found guilty of doping will be disqualified immediately, and any medals won will be withdrawn.
The National Sports Festival, Nigeria’s biggest grassroots sporting event, draws athletes from all 36 states and the FCT. It promotes unity and talent development in sports.
Rate, Like 👍, Comment, share this article and Follow us on our social media handles.
WhatsApp Channel
Telegram Channel
