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The mandatory enforcement of random drug tests for players participating in the Nigerian Premier Football League, outlined that anti-doping tests would be conducted on two players from each club involved in a given fixture, without prior notice. Clubs were urged to extend maximum cooperation to the Anti-Doping Agency to effectively address both real and rumoured doping scandals within the NPFL.
Owumi, in the circular, reminded the clubs of the initiative to introduce random drug tests, stating, “Recall our previous communication informing all clubs of the commencement of random drug tests on Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) players, and be further informed that we have now completed all processes for its implementation by the National Anti-Doping Committee.”
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The circular also conveyed the requirements for the full implementation of doping checks, specifying that a Doping Control Systems office is to be activated at all NPFL stadiums. All clubs are mandated to ensure smooth testing by the Committee.
Emphasizing that Test Operatives must not face hindrances in carrying out their duties, the memo stated, “Note that relevant operatives of the National Anti-Doping Committee would be attending your matches for this exercise without prior notice, except for purposes of access to the stadium and for your players to submit to the test when demanded.”
The testing procedure involves collecting samples from four players, with two selected from each team. The selection will be done through target testing, in line with the International Standard for Testing and Investigation and the FIFA Anti-Doping Rules.
The NPFL asserts that this initiative aligns with the zero-tolerance stance on doping advocated by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), CAF, and FIFA. Recently, testing kits arrived in the country, and selected operatives have undergone training on their application.
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