The Chairman of the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL), Gbenga Elegbeleye, has announced the forthcoming implementation of random doping tests for players in the league, MySportDab reports.
These tests will be conducted in collaboration with relevant government agencies following the acquisition of testing kits from the United Kingdom.
Elegbeleye, who made this announcement during a visit to support Rivers United in their CAF Confederation Cup qualifier against Etoile Filante in Port Harcourt, emphasized the league’s commitment to eradicating the use of illicit substances in sports.
This initiative aligns with the global campaign supported by organizations such as the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), CAF, and FIFA to ensure clean and fair sports.
Elegbeleye stated that the NPFL are committed to joining the NFF, CAF, FIFA, and the global campaign for the eradication of illicit substance use in sports, and this will commence soon with random tests of our players.
The NPFL Chairman further outlined plans to launch an enlightenment campaign in collaboration with relevant government agencies.
This campaign will include displays on MatchDay stadium boards and media channels, serving as an educational tool to raise awareness about the dangers of illicit substance use in sports.
The Chief Operating Officer of the NPFL, Davidson Owumi, provided additional details on the testing process. He revealed that NPFL clubs would receive a notice of two weeks before the commencement of the tests.
Training sessions on the operation of the testing kits are also underway to ensure a seamless implementation of random tests within the next two weeks.
Owumi emphasized the importance of medical teams within the clubs taking an active role in sensitizing players about banned substances and how to avoid products that contain such substances.
This educational effort aims to empower players with knowledge about the substances they should avoid to maintain clean and fair competition within the NPFL.
The NPFL’s commitment to conducting random doping tests underscores its dedication to upholding the principles of integrity, fairness, and clean sports.
This initiative serves as a significant step towards ensuring that Nigerian football continues to thrive with the highest standards of sportsmanship and ethics.
