The Senate has passed a bill aimed at prohibiting Nigerian athletes from consuming performance-enhancing substances during or after sporting competitions.
The bill, titled “National Anti-Doping Bill 2024,” was passed on Thursday, June 6, following a request from President Bola Tinubu to enact the law.
The president’s request, read on the floor by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, sought to domesticate and enforce in Nigeria the international convention against doping in sports ahead of the 2024 Olympic Games in France.
The bill also aims to establish the Nigeria Anti-Doping Centre to implement Nigeria’s obligations to the World Anti-Doping Code in conformity with international standards.
The passage of the bill followed the consideration and approval of the report of the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, and Legal Matters during plenary.
The committee’s chairman, Senator Mohammed Monguno, presented the report, which was adopted by the senators.
The bill was then read for a third time and approved by a voice vote presided over by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin.
The National Anti-Doping Bill 2024 aims to prevent the use of performance-enhancing substances in sports, promote a doping-free environment, and protect the health and well-being of athletes.
The bill also seeks to establish a framework for testing, detection, and sanctioning of doping offenses in sports.
The passage of the bill is a significant step towards ensuring that Nigerian athletes compete fairly and safely in international sporting competitions.
The establishment of the Nigeria Anti-Doping Centre will also provide a robust framework for implementing anti-doping measures in the country.
The Senate’s move is a welcome development in the sports community, as it demonstrates the country’s commitment to upholding international standards in sports and promoting a culture of fair play.
With the passage of this bill, Nigeria is poised to join the global community in the fight against doping in sports.
