The Nigerian Army and Nigerian Anti-Doping Centre (NADC) have strengthened collaboration to promote clean sport and protect athletes from prohibited substances.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, stated this on Wednesday when the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of NADC, Mr Mainasara Illo, led a delegation on a courtesy visit to Army Headquarters, Abuja.
This is contained in a statement by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele, on Wednesday in Abuja.
Shaibu stressed the importance of sustained anti-doping education, regular screening and effective institutional oversight, particularly from the early stages of athletes’ development.
He said adequate sensitisation would help prevent the intentional or inadvertent use of prohibited substances contained in unverified medications, supplements and local remedies.
The COAS assured the delegation of the army’s readiness to support joint anti-doping education, sensitisation and capacity-building programmes for its athletes and support personnel.
He also offered the army’s physical training platforms for relevant seminars and awareness activities aimed at promoting compliance with international sporting standards.
Shaibu said proactive education would protect athletes from avoidable sanctions while safeguarding their careers and Nigeria’s reputation at national and international competitions.
He emphasised the need for a preventive approach that would equip military athletes, coaches and support personnel with adequate knowledge on nutrition, medication, supplements and performance enhancement.
The COAS said such measures would reinforce discipline and sustain the Nigerian Army’s contribution to national sporting excellence.
Earlier, Illo commended the Nigerian Army for its contributions to national sports, institutional discipline and national defence.
He said the NADC was mandated to promote clean sport and strengthen compliance with anti-doping standards across Nigeria.
Illo added that the centre maintained technical alignment with the World Anti-Doping Agency in the discharge of its mandate. (NAN)
