Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-03-09 03:35:22
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) have reached an agreement to collaborate on conducting drug tests for footballers in Nigeria. This partnership aims to address the issue of substance abuse within the country.
The decision to conduct drug tests for footballers was a key outcome of discussions between the leadership of the NDLEA and the NPFL. The Chairman of the NPFL board, Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye, along with a delegation that included ex-international player Daniel Amokachi, Chairman of Sokoto State Football Association Mohammed Saidu Nasiru, Chief Operating Officer of the NPFL Davidson Owumi, and Head of Legal NPFL Uche George Egbe, paid a courtesy visit to the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd) in Abuja.
During the meeting, Elegbeleye praised Marwa for his leadership and the transformative impact he has had on the NDLEA, making it a respected law enforcement agency both domestically and internationally. He highlighted the agency’s efforts in raising awareness about drug abuse and cracking down on drug cartels and barons. Elegbeleye also pointed out the challenges faced by the sports industry in Nigeria, particularly in football, including issues related to betting and the use of performance-enhancing drugs by players. Therefore, he sought the support and partnership of NDLEA to address these issues.
Marwa commended Elegbeleye for his efforts in improving the football league and assured him of the agency’s continued fight against drug cartels in the country. He expressed the NDLEA’s readiness to partner with the NPFL to combat substance abuse among footballers. Marwa emphasized the importance of conducting random drug tests on players and stated that all NDLEA commands nationwide are equipped to support this initiative. He also suggested that star footballers should be mobilized to advocate against drug abuse, as they are often seen as role models by young people.
In conclusion, the collaboration between the NDLEA and the NPFL to conduct drug tests on footballers represents a proactive step towards addressing the issue of substance abuse in Nigeria. By working together, both organizations can contribute to creating a safer and healthier environment for athletes and the broader community.
