Protecting Nigeria’s Athletes and Sporting Integrity on the Global Stage

 

Governance, at its core, is about continuity. A visionary leader lays foundations that successors can build upon—turning ambitions into achievements. As Prof. Jerry Gana once wisely noted, “If you are a teacher, teach well,” meaning that every position held in public service should be used to make lasting, meaningful impact. No position is permanent, but the legacies we leave can endure.

 

This principle was clearly embodied in the brief yet impactful tenure of former Minister of Sports, Senator John Owan Enoh. Despite his short time in office, he championed the successful passage of the Anti-Doping Bill, signed into law in 2024 by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu—a move that elevated Nigeria’s global credibility and compliance with international sports regulations.

 

Senator Enoh’s resolve came during a turbulent period when Nigeria faced significant threats from global regulatory bodies. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) had warned of sanctions that could see Nigerian athletes barred from the Olympics. A particular flashpoint was the case of Tobi Amusan, Nigeria’s track star, who stood at the center of an international storm.

 

Despite mounting pressure, the CAS dismissed appeals filed by WADA and World Athletics against the earlier decision by the World Athletics Disciplinary Tribunal, ruling that Amusan did not violate Rule 2.4 of the WA Anti-Doping Rules. She was cleared of any wrongdoing, a decision that saved her career and preserved Nigeria’s sporting image.

 

This outcome was the result of relentless advocacy by a coalition of sports stakeholders. From Senator Enoh and Director of the Anti-Doping Department Ms. Fadeke, to Prof. Ken Anugweje, NOC President Engr. Habu Gumel, and Nigeria’s lone female representative on the IOC Board, Mrs. Maria Wophil—their collective efforts ensured Nigeria’s voice was heard and respected. The media, too, played a key role, using their platforms to defend the athletes and amplify calls for justice.

 

Senator Enoh may not have had a lifetime in the sports sector, but his decisive leadership, commitment to fairness, and drive to align Nigeria with international standards cannot be understated. His lobbying for the Anti-Doping Bill at the National Assembly helped rescue the nation from international embarrassment and restored confidence in Nigerian sports governance.

 

President Tinubu’s eventual endorsement and signing of the Anti-Doping Bill into law marked a pivotal moment. The legislation now stands as a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to clean sports and global integrity.

 

Alhaji Shehu Dikko, the current Chairman of the National Sports Commission, deserves equal accolades. Since assuming office, he has shown firm dedication to consolidating the gains made by his predecessor. Under his leadership, Nigeria continues to align with global anti-doping standards—ensuring that our athletes can compete on the world stage without fear of disqualification.

 

Dikko’s leadership reflects a broader vision: to position Nigeria as a sporting powerhouse, grounded in integrity, professionalism, and global competitiveness. Much like Senator Enoh’s push for the National Sports Industry Policy, Dikko’s commitment to reforms under the “Dream Team Project” aims to harness the economic and cultural potential of sports through strategic partnerships with the private sector.

 

As Senator Enoh rightly said, “I am confident that the National Sports Commission will continue the good work we started, ensuring that our athletes and sports policies are world class.” Alhaji Shehu Dikko’s actions are already proving those words true. His decision to continue and complete projects initiated by his predecessor demonstrates that legacies in sports governance are best honored not just with praise, but with action.

 

In a time when nations are judged not just by their athletic prowess, but by their commitment to fairness and regulatory compliance, Nigeria has taken a bold step forward. With leaders like Senator Enoh and Shehu Dikko, the country’s sporting future looks not only promising but protected.

 

Felly Mammah

Abuja