NOC unveils safeguarding policy, orders sports federations to domesticate

The Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) has officially launched a national safeguarding policy for sports, mandating all national sports federations to adopt and implement the framework. This initiative aims to shield athletes from abuse, harassment, discrimination, and exploitation, ensuring a secure environment for their development and competition.

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The integrity of sport rests not only on fair play and competition, but also on the fundamental right of every participant to train, compete and develop in an environment free from harassment, abuse, discrimination and exploitation.

NOC President Habu Gumel stated that the policy aligns Nigeria's sports sector with international best practices. Its development followed the inauguration of the NOC Safeguarding Commission in February 2025 and subsequent awareness campaigns targeting athletes, coaches, and administrators. Interactions during the National Sports Festival highlighted the critical need for athlete protection and maintaining sports integrity.

"The integrity of sport rests not only on fair play and competition, but also on the fundamental right of every participant to train, compete and develop in an environment free from harassment, abuse, discrimination and exploitation," Gumel explained. The policy is fully aligned with the International Olympic Committee’s consensus statement on harassment and abuse in sport and the Olympic Charter, establishing clear standards, reporting mechanisms, and accountability structures.

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Nigeria’s Safeguarding in Sports Policy is a formal expression of a zero-tolerance stance against all forms of abuse and misconduct in sport. It establishes clear standards, reporting mechanisms and accountability structures for all stakeholders, from grassroots programmes to elite national teams.

The framework specifically addresses the vulnerabilities of children, female athletes, and individuals with disabilities, affirming everyone's right to dignity and protection. Gumel urged all federations to appoint safeguarding officers to ensure compliance with the new policy.

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Importantly, this policy recognises the unique vulnerabilities of children, female athletes and persons with disabilities while affirming the rights of every participant, regardless of age, gender, ability or status, to be protected and treated with dignity and respect.