President Bola Tinubu has formally requested the Senate to review and approve a bill designed to prohibit the use of performance-enhancing substances by athletes. This request was delivered in a letter read by Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau during a session of the upper legislative chamber on Thursday.
In his letter, President Tinubu highlighted the importance of the proposed bill, which aims to establish a legal framework for the formation of the National Anti-Doping Organization (NADO). The creation of this agency is seen as crucial for ensuring compliance with international standards and maintaining the integrity of sports in Nigeria.
The bill, once enacted, will align Nigeria with the World Anti-Doping Code, a comprehensive set of regulations aimed at promoting fair competition and preventing doping in sports globally. The establishment of NADO would provide a structured approach to doping control, including testing, education, and enforcement, to protect the health of athletes and preserve the spirit of fair play.
President Tinubu emphasized that the establishment of a dedicated anti-doping agency is essential for Nigeria to meet the stringent requirements set by international sports bodies. This move is expected to enhance Nigeria’s reputation in the global sports community and ensure that Nigerian athletes compete on a level playing field.
“In accordance with the provisions of section 58 (2) of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended, I forward herewith the National Anti-Doping Bill 2024 for the kind consideration of the senate,” the letter reads.
“The National Anti-Doping Bill 2024 seeks to create an administratively independent National Anti-Doping organization which is a cardinal requirement for Nigeria to achieve compliance with the World Anti-Doping Code and the international standard for code compliance by signatures.
“The enactment of this vital legislation will also help Nigeria avoid the imposition of signatory consequences, the inclusion of laws of hosting and participating rights at regional, continental, and world championships or major athletic events.
“It is my hope that this submission will receive the humankind expeditious consideration of the distinguished members of the Senate of Federal Nigeria for passage of the same to law before the Olympic Games seminar in Paris in July 2024.”
