The Senate on Thursday confirmed Mainasara Illo as executive secretary and chief executive officer of the Nigeria Anti-Doping Centre (NADC).

The confirmation followed the consideration and adoption of a report by the Senate joint committee on sports development and drugs and narcotics on the nominee’s screening.

The chairman of the committee, Abdul Ningi, presented the report and moved the motion for its consideration, which was seconded by Diket Plang.

Presenting the report, Mr Ningi said Nigeria had gained global recognition through the outstanding performances of its athletes in international sports competitions.

He said the establishment of the NADC was critical to protecting the integrity of Nigerian sports and ensuring compliance with global anti-doping regulations.

According to him, the centre will position Nigeria as a leading anti-doping hub in Africa and among countries with world-class testing and compliance systems.

The committee said that doping-related scandals had previously led to sanctions, athlete disqualifications, loss of medals, and reputational damage for Nigeria.

It added that a functional anti-doping centre would help safeguard athletes, preserve Nigeria’s sporting image, and strengthen the country’s overall sports development framework.

The committee, in line with the Nigeria Anti-Doping Act 2025 and constitutional provisions,recommended confirming Mr Illo as executive secretary of the centre.

Following deliberations at the committee of the whole, the Senate unanimously confirmed his appointment.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended the joint committees for their swift work and expressed confidence that the new leadership would strengthen Nigeria’s anti-doping system.

(NAN)