ABEOKUTA, May 20, 2025 – The National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced the disqualification of several registered athletes from participating in the 22nd National Sports Festival, also known as the Gateway Games 2024, due to anti-doping violations. The announcement came following a strategic joint meeting between the Main Organising Committee and the Local Organising Committee held on Monday.
According to the NSC, the decision aligns with global best practices and strictly adheres to the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) code. The Commission emphasized that no athlete with unresolved doping issues will be allowed to compete for medals in the ongoing competition.
In a statement issued by the Director-General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, participating states were urged to ensure that their athletes uphold the principles of fair play and clean competition.
“The issue of anti-doping is a key mandate of the Commission to ensure that Nigeria is devoid of drug-related problems in both domestic and international competitions,” Olopade stated.
“We are happy that the National Anti-Doping Law has finally been passed by our sports-loving President, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. The ripple effect of such a landmark move must be felt immediately, starting with this current National Sports Festival.”
The NSC reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing anti-doping standards and fostering integrity in Nigerian sports. Athletes found to have violated anti-doping regulations will not only be barred from the current festival but may also face further sanctions.
List of Disqualified Athletes for Anti-Doping Violations:
1. Marcus Okon – Akwa Ibom State (Para Athletics)
2. Ayabeke David Opeyemi – Bayelsa State (Gymnastics)
3. Kareem Shukurat – Lagos State (Kickboxing)
4. Omole Dolapo Joshua – Bayelsa State (Kickboxing)
5. Ogunsemilore Cynthia – Bayelsa State (Kickboxing)
6. Animashaun Sofia – Lagos State (Para Powerlifting)
The Commission urged state sports councils and athletic bodies to enhance their education and monitoring mechanisms to prevent future occurrences and ensure strict compliance with anti-doping rules.
The 22nd National Sports Festival continues in Ogun State with over 12,000 athletes from across Nigeria competing in various sporting disciplines, with a renewed focus on clean and fair competition.
Signed:
Dr. (Mrs.) Kehinde Ajayi, FCAI, ANIPR
Director of Press
National Sports Commission (NSC)
May 20, 2025
