By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Anti-Doping Centre (NADC) have strengthened their partnership to promote clean sport, protect athletes and uphold Nigeria’s sporting integrity and international reputation.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, stated this on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, when he received the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the NADC, Mr Mainasara Illo, and his delegation on a courtesy visit to Army Headquarters, Abuja.
According to an official statement signed by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Lieutenant General Shaibu stressed the importance of sustained anti-doping education, regular screening and effective institutional oversight, particularly from the early stages of athletes’ development.
The COAS noted that adequate sensitisation would help prevent the intentional or inadvertent use of prohibited substances, including those contained in unverified medications, supplements and local remedies.
He assured the NADC delegation of the Nigerian Army’s readiness to support joint anti-doping education, sensitisation and capacity-building programmes.
Shaibu also expressed the Army’s willingness to make its physical training platforms available for relevant seminars and awareness activities, noting that proactive education would protect athletes from avoidable sanctions, promote compliance with international sporting standards and safeguard Nigeria’s reputation at national and international competitions.
The Army Chief further advocated a preventive approach that equips military athletes, coaches and support personnel with adequate knowledge to make informed decisions on nutrition, medication, supplements and performance enhancement.
He said such measures would reinforce discipline, protect the health and careers of athletes, and sustain the Nigerian Army’s longstanding contribution to national sporting excellence.
Earlier, the NADC Executive Secretary and CEO, Mainasara Illo, commended the Nigerian Army for its contributions to national sports, institutional discipline and national defence.
Illo explained that the Centre is mandated to promote clean sport and strengthen compliance with anti-doping standards across Nigeria, while maintaining technical alignment with the World Anti-Doping Agency.
