The National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced that athletes found to have committed anti-doping violations will not be allowed to compete for medals at the ongoing National Sports Festival, Gateway Games 2024, in a move aimed at upholding integrity and fair play.
The Commission stressed that the decision is in line with international standards and adheres strictly to the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) code.
NSC Director-General, Honourable Bukola Olopade, urged all participating states to take note of the directive, reaffirming the Commission’s commitment to ensuring a clean and credible competition.
“This is in line with global best practices, and we remain committed to fair and clean competition at all levels,” Olopade stated.
In addition to the policy announcement, the NSC released the names of athletes who have been barred from competing for medals due to doping violations. The affected athletes include:
- Marcus Okon (Akwa Ibom, Para Athletics)
- Ayabeke David Opeyemi (Bayelsa, Gymnastics)
- Kareem Shukurat (Lagos, Kickboxing)
- Omole Dolapo Joshua (Bayelsa, Kickboxing)
- Ogunsemilore Cynthia (Bayelsa, Kickboxing)
- Animashaun Sofia (Lagos, Para Powerlifting)
The NSC reiterated that maintaining the integrity of the National Sports Festival is non-negotiable and that all stakeholders must adhere to the highest standards of conduct in sports.
