The NDLEA and NPFL have forged an alliance to implement drug testing protocols for Nigerian footballers, aiming to combat substance abuse within the country’s sporting community.
Among the key moments in discussions between the Agency and the football league was a high-profile meeting led by Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye, NPFL board Chairman, alongside ex-international Daniel Amokachi and Club Chairmen, who paid a courtesy call to NDLEA’s Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd) in Abuja on March 8th, 2024.
Others on the delegation were Chairman of Sokoto State Football Association, Mohammed Saidu Nasiru; Chief Operating Officer of the NPFL, Davidson Owumi and Head of Legal, NPFL, Uche George Egbe.
During his speech, Elegbeleye lauded Marwa’s remarkable leadership, acknowledging his pivotal role in elevating the NDLEA into a revered law enforcement agency, commanding respect both domestically and internationally.
He pointed out that the agency’s efforts have not only elevated public awareness about the drug scourge but have also successfully thwarted the activities and dominance of drug cartels and kingpins.
He said part of the problems facing the sports industry in the country especially football is betting and use of performance enhancing drugs by footballers.
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He said he has to reach out to the agency for partnership to salvage the situation.
“The only agency that can save this situation is NDLEA by working with us to carry out random drug test on our players. Once they know we conduct drug test, they will refrain from abuse of illicit substances.
“This is why we seek the support and partnership with NDLEA”, Elegbeleye stated.
Marwa lauded the NPFL boss for his outstanding accomplishments and inventive approaches to enhancing the growth of the football league.
Marwa reassured that the agency will persist in its proactive measures against drug cartels nationwide. He conveyed NDLEA’s eagerness to join forces with NPFL to combat the abuse of illicit substances among football players.
“We are happy with your request for random drug test for players. This is available in all our commands nationwide and we are ready to work with you in this respect. We are very ready to collaborate and support you in your quest”, Marwa stated.
He suggested that the league should explore the idea of engaging star footballers in active advocacy against drug abuse, as many young people admire them as role models.