Nigerian Baseball and Softball Association Applauds President Tinubu for Anti-Doping Law

***Highlights Nigeria's Potential with Everight Laboratory's Cutting-Edge Testing for Integrity in Athletics


In a significant boost for sports integrity in Nigeria, the Nigerian Baseball and Softball Association (NBSA) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his recent signing of the Anti-Doping Bill into law. Mr. Uche Odozor, the president of the NBSA, voiced profound gratitude for the legislative milestone, highlighting its vital role in promoting fairness and transparency in sports.

Mr. Uche Odozor also  expressed his gratitude to the Chairman of the National Sports Commission Alhaji Shehu Dikko, for championing the passage of the Anti-Doping Act. He highlighted the importance of this Act in promoting fair play and integrity in sports, deterring the use of performance-enhancing substances and protecting the health of athletes.

Additionally, Mr. Odozor commended Alhaji Shehu Dikko, for his unwavering support and belief that Nigeria can become an anti-doping hub on the continent and globally, in line with the RHINSE framework. This vision aligns with the President's approval in 2025, a testament to the collective efforts made to ensure a clean and ethical sports environment in Nigeria.

The Anti-Doping Bill, now law, represents a concerted effort by the Nigerian government to combat the pervasive issue of performance-enhancing drugs within sports. Odozor described the legislation as a testament to President Tinubu's unwavering commitment to fostering a culture of clean sports in Nigeria. "This landmark legislation is a significant step toward upholding the integrity of our athletes and restoring public confidence in our sporting institutions," Odozor stated in a press conference held in Abuja.

The NBSA has long advocated for stringent measures against doping, recognizing the detrimental impact it has on athletes, competition fairness, and the country’s international reputation. Odozor emphasized that the new law would not only hold athletes accountable but also educate them about the dangers of doping. "By rooting out doping, we are ensuring that our athletes compete on a level playing field, embodying true sportsmanship," he added.

As part of the implementation of the law, the government is expected to establish stringent testing protocols and collaborative efforts with international sports organizations to ensure compliance and foster awareness about the consequences of doping. Odozor urged athletes at all levels to remain vigilant and proactive in advocating for clean sport practices.

"This is not just about compliance but a moral obligation to our fans and future generations. We must work to cultivate a passion for integrity-connected sports," he stated.

The move has been well received not only in the baseball and softball community but also across other sports federations in Nigeria. Many view it as a pivotal moment that could restore trust in Nigerian athletics, especially as the nation prepares for upcoming international competitions.

With the signing of the Anti-Doping Bill, Nigeria has taken a decisive step towards aligning with global standards in sports governance. The NBSA looks forward to continuing its partnership with the government and other stakeholders to promote a doping-free environment, setting an example in the continent and beyond.

Odozor emphasized that Nigeria now has the potential to enhance its sporting reputation through leading laboratories like Everight Laboratory, which holds ISO certification. By leveraging this development, these facilities can assist Nigeria and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) in promoting clean sports. Their capabilities in providing accurate and swift screening processes will significantly contribute to maintaining fair competition and athlete integrity, both locally and globally.

-Ayodele Gideon Juwon 
PRO, Nigerian Baseball and Softball Association

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