The Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) has launched its Safeguard Commission, reinforcing its commitment to ensuring a safe and supportive environment for athletes and stakeholders across the country.

This new commission is in line with the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) long-standing efforts to create safe sporting spaces.

 Since 2004, the IOC has prioritized safe sports, and as a member of the Olympic Movement, the NOC is dedicated to upholding these standards.

The Safeguard Commission is tasked with aligning with IOC best practices to protect athletes and their entourages—including coaches and officials—from all forms of harassment and abuse within the sporting environment.

This includes physical, sexual, emotional, and psychological abuse, as well as neglect and discrimination.

Key objectives of the commission include:

• Preventing harassment, abuse, and discrimination in sports
• Offering support and resources to athletes and stakeholders affected by misconduct
• Promoting a culture of reporting and investigating allegations
• Collaborating with stakeholders to implement effective safeguarding policies

"The Nigeria Olympic Committee is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all athletes and stakeholders," said NOC President Engr. Habu Ahmed Gumel.

"The inauguration of the Safeguard Commission is a significant step toward achieving this goal."

The commission comprises seven professionals who are certified Safeguard Sports Officers following training from the IOC's international course on safeguarding.

Among the commission members are Dr. Olajide Adebola, Mr. Femi Abioye, Ms. Justina Erezi, and Dr. Oluwaseun Nariwoh, with Dr. Adebola chairing the team from the National Sports Federations.

The inauguration took place virtually on January 20, 2025.