Ondo SWAN, NDLEA Preach Against Drugs Among Sportsmen

By Ayodele Oni

Sports Writers Association Of Nigeria (SWAN), Ondo State Chapter, and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, (NDLEA), have intensified efforts to check the menace of drugs  among sports professionals.

To this end, the two bodies organized a sensitisation programme to combat drug abuse among athletes, their fans and the general public.

The event which held at the indoor Sports Hall of the Ondo State Sports complex, Akure, brought together athletes, coaches, and stakeholders from various games.

While declaring open the programme with the theme: “Drug Abuse-Battling A Menace In Nigerian Sports” Ondo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mr Saka Yusuf-Ogunleye, commended the organisers for putting together the event at the right time when the whole world is preparing for 2024 Olympics.

The Commissioner represented by his Special Adviser, Mr Daodu Alex, said the State Government is ready to partner with concerned stakeholders and Agencies to have a drug abuse free society.

He said: “I admonish the convener of this event (SWAN) and their partner  to ensure they take this advocacy beyond  this hall.

“Let us take it to schools so that we will be able to educate the upcoming athletes the danger in taking performance Enhancement tablets.”

The NDLEA Commander in Ondo State, Mr Kayode Raji, emphasized the urgent need to address the escalating issue of drug abuse within the sports community.

“We are not here to deliver speeches, we are here to save lives,” he stated in his welcome remarks.

“Drug abuse has destroyed many lives, and it is no longer a distant issue, but one that is now prevalent among us.

“The consequences are limitless. Drug abuse is gradually infiltrating the sports community, and now is the time to step in and sensitize athletes about its dangers.”

Raji further highlighted the NDLEA’s commitment to eradicating drug abuse and providing support for those affected.

“Preventive measures and support systems are in place, and we are dedicated to ensuring that athletes have the resources and knowledge to avoid the pitfalls of drug abuse.”

Lawrence Adegbehingbe, an Olympian, and one of the Speakers at the event, stated that the pressure on athletes is immense, driving them to use substances to meet unrealistic performance expectations.

He emphasized that sensitization on drug should begin at home, with parents setting positive examples. He also expressed his gratitude to SWAN and the NDLEA for organizing the event.

In his lecture, a senior Civil Servant in the State, Mr Bunmi Akinsemola said doping is as old as sports itself,saying, “it’s not clear whether it started with animals in chariot racing.” adding that the essence of doping is to cheat.

“Even the ancient Olympics are not spared from the allegations of the use of herbal infusion before races, use of alcohol in modern Olympics was not uncommon.”

Akinsemola noted that performance enhancement tablets can’t help athletes’ career but cut it short, saying,” International Olympic Committee stripped Marion Jones of five medals (three gold ,two bronze) she won in Sydney over drug use.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of SWAN, Ondo State Chapter, Mr. Segun Giwa, highlighted the significant threat drug abuse poses to the sports industry.

He stressed that sports writers must not be complacent and should play an active role in raising awareness and educating athletes.

Giwa called for stronger government support and the creation of a drug-free sports culture that values hard work, dedication, and fair play.

“Let us all work together to create a drug-free sports culture in Nigeria. A culture that values hard work, dedication, and fair play. A culture that produces champions who inspire us with their talent, their character, and their integrity.”