The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) Ondo State chapter, along with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has raised concerns about the increasing use of hard drugs among athletes in the state.
Speaking at a sensitization program held at the indoor sports hall of the Ondo State Sports Complex in Akure, NDLEA Commander Kayode Raji highlighted the urgent need to tackle drug abuse within the sports community. The event, themed “Drug Abuse: Battling A Menace in Nigerian Sports,” aimed to address the alarming trend.
Raji expressed worry over the escalating use of illicit drugs by athletes, warning that such behavior could abruptly end their promising careers. “Drug abuse has destroyed many lives, and it is no longer a distant issue but one that is now prevalent among us. Preventive measures and support systems are in place, and we are dedicated to ensuring that athletes have the resources and knowledge to avoid the pitfalls of drug abuse,” he stated.
SWAN Ondo State Chairman, Segun Giwa, called on sports writers to actively participate in the sensitization of athletes and their fans. He emphasized the need for stronger government support and the creation of a drug-free sports culture that values hard work, dedication, and fair play.
The joint effort by SWAN and NDLEA underscores the critical need for immediate action to curb drug abuse among athletes and ensure a healthier, more ethical sports environment in Ondo State.
