The 22nd National Sports Festival-Gateway Games 2024 in Ogun State has been rocked by a doping scandal, as at least six athletes have been disqualified for breaching anti-doping regulations.
The affected athletes represent a range of disciplines and states, casting a shadow over Nigeria’s premier multi-sport event.
The disqualified athletes are:
Marcus Okon (Akwa Ibom, Para Athletics)
David Opeyemi (Bayelsa, Gymnastics)
Kareem Shukurat (Lagos, Kickboxing)
Omole Dolapo Joshua (Bayelsa, Kickboxing)
Ogunsemilore Cynthia (Bayelsa, Kickboxing)
Animashaun Sofia (Lagos, Para Powerlifting)
The festival’s Anti-Doping Committee confirmed the sanctions after routine tests returned adverse findings.
Authorities have remained tight-lipped about the specific substances involved, but sources within the organising body suggest that the violations ranged from the use of banned stimulants to anabolic agents.
Bayelsa State appears the hardest hit, with three athletes two in kickboxing and one in gymnastics—disqualified.
Lagos follows with two athletes involved, while Akwa Ibom sees one of its para athletes suspended.
An official of the National Anti-Doping Committee speaking on condition of anonymity to Athletic NG
“This is a clear message that doping will not be tolerated at any level. The integrity of the National Sports Festival must be preserved, and all athletes are expected to compete fairly”
The development has sparked renewed calls for stricter education and enforcement of anti-doping protocols across Nigeria’s sporting federations, particularly at grassroots and state levels.
