NFF Hails Landmark Anti-Doping Board Inauguration, Congratulates Illo, Gyaran

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has applauded the Federal Government for inaugurating the Technical Board of the Nigeria Anti-Doping Centre (NADC), describing the move as a significant milestone in strengthening integrity and accountability in Nigerian sport.

The Technical Board was inaugurated on Thursday following the enactment of the National Anti-Doping Act 2025, which established the NADC as a statutory body mandated to implement Nigeria’s anti-doping obligations in line with the World Anti-Doping Code.

NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, said the development reflects the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to repositioning Nigerian sport and safeguarding the credibility of the country’s participation in international competitions.

“The inauguration of the Technical Board of the NADC is another feather in the cap of the administration of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,” Sanusi said.

“Since the coming into office of His Excellency and his administration, Nigerian sport has witnessed a rebirth in several areas, including improved funding, greater encouragement and motivation for athletes and officials, as well as accountable and transparent leadership.

“We commend the Federal Government on the inauguration of the NADC Technical Board. It is, without doubt, a milestone in the history of sports governance in Nigeria.”

Sanusi noted that doping violations had damaged Nigeria’s image over the years but expressed confidence that the newly inaugurated board would help restore the country’s reputation through effective oversight and strict enforcement of anti-doping regulations.

“Doping violations over the decades have not done the country’s image any good. The NADC Board will undoubtedly ensure greater accountability in this area and restore our country’s reputation as a nation with zero tolerance for doping,” he added.

The NFF General Secretary also congratulated the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the NADC, Alhaji Mainasara Illo, expressing confidence in his ability to lead the Centre successfully.

According to Sanusi, Illo’s extensive experience in organising and managing Nigeria’s participation in major international sporting events places him in a strong position to deliver on the Centre’s mandate of educating athletes and stakeholders, preventing doping violations, protecting clean athletes and enforcing anti-doping regulations.

“We believe he has the capacity to fully justify the confidence reposed in him by His Excellency,” Sanusi said.

A veteran broadcaster and seasoned sports administrator, Illo served as Deputy Chief Organiser of the 8th All Africa Games hosted by Nigeria in 2003 and was Chief Organiser of the FIFA U-17 World Cup staged by the country in 2009.

The NFF also congratulated Dr Ibrahim Gyaran, medical doctor of the Super Eagles, on his appointment to the Technical Board of the Nigeria Anti-Doping Centre, describing it as a well-deserved recognition of his expertise and contributions to sports medicine.