The Ondo State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria has partnered the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency as part of efforts of the agency to combat drug abuse among sportsmen and women.
Speaking at the sensitisation programme for sports stakeholders in the state, held at the indoor sports hall of the Ondo State Sports complex, Akure on Friday, the NDLEA Commander in the state, Kayode Raji, emphasised the urgent need to address the escalating issue of drug abuse within the sports community.
The programme, organised by SWAN, was themed, ‘Drug abuse: Battling a menace in Nigerian sports.’
According to Raji, drug abuse, which has destroyed many lives in the country, has infiltrated into the sports world. He added that there was the need for stakeholders to take action against the menace.
“We are not here to deliver speeches; we are here to save lives. Drug abuse has destroyed many lives, and it is no longer a distant issue but one that is now prevalent among us. The consequences are limitless. Drug abuse is gradually infiltrating the sports community, and now is the time to step in and sensitise athletes about its dangers,” Raji said.
He stressed that “preventive measures and support systems were in place and we are dedicated to ensuring that athletes have the resources and knowledge to avoid the pitfalls of drug abuse.”
While declaring open the sensitisation programme, the Ondo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Saka Yusuf-Ogunleye, commended the organisers for putting together the event at a time when the world was preparing for the 2024 Olympics.
The commissioner, represented by his Special Adviser, Daodu Alex, said the state government was ready to partner with concerned stakeholders and agencies to have a drug abuse-free society.
In his remarks, the state Chairman of SWAN, Segun Giwa, stated, “Let us all work together to create a drug-free sports culture in Nigeria, a culture that values hard work, dedication and fair play, a culture that produces champions who inspire us with their talents, character and integrity.”