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As preparations intensify for the upcoming National Sports Festival (NSF), the Ogun State government has expressed its commitment to minimizing and ultimately eradicating drug use and abuse among athletes. This initiative aims to promote fair competition and maintain the integrity of the festival.

The Commissioner for Sports Development, Wasiu Isiaka, made this known on Thursday while hosting a delegation from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), led by the State Commander, Tijani Rabe. Isiaka emphasized that the NSF is more than just a national event—it represents unity, togetherness, and the spirit of sportsmanship.

“We are committed to collaborating with the NDLEA to make the upcoming festival not only the best the country has ever seen but also drug-free. Sporting activities should be clean, free from banned substances, and reflect true talent and hard work,” Isiaka stated.

He further revealed plans for a comprehensive training session for athletes, coaches, and sports officials, jointly organized by the Ministry of Sports Development and the NDLEA. The training will focus on the dangers of drug abuse, the importance of fair play, and strategies for maintaining a healthy, drug-free lifestyle.

On his part, the NDLEA State Commander, Tijani Rabe, expressed optimism about the new partnership with the Ministry of Sports Development. He acknowledged that previous interactions between the two institutions had been limited but believed that this renewed collaboration would yield positive results.

“This partnership will be a game-changer in discouraging drug use among athletes. We are ready to train and retrain state athletes, ensuring a fair and competitive environment where no participant uses drugs to gain an unfair advantage,” Rabe affirmed.

Rabe concluded by noting that the success of this collaboration could set a new standard for sports festivals in Nigeria, fostering a culture of integrity, discipline, and drug-free competition across the country.