Joe
Chioma Ajunwa, Nigeria’s 1996 Atlanta Olympics gold medalist in the Long Jump, has issued a stern warning to athletes, particularly those involved in water sports, to avoid over-the-counter medications due to the potential risk of drowning.
Ajunwa made this statement as the special guest at the 2024 Annual General Meeting of the Navy Sailing Club, held over the weekend at the Rock View Hotel in Festac Town, Lagos.
During the event, where she was also conferred with honorary membership of the club by Captain Festus Adewuyi, Ajunwa presented a paper titled “Dangers of Hard Drugs on Water Sports.” In her speech, she emphasized that in other countries, athletes are prohibited from purchasing medications over the counter because they may contain banned substances.
“It’s crucial for water sports athletes and others to be mindful of what they eat, drink, or the medications they take,” Ajunwa advised.
“Athletes must be cautious and avoid consuming just anything, especially when it comes to food, meat, drink, or medication from across the counter. These substances might contain harmful ingredients that could result in failed doping tests.”
Ajunwa also highlighted the dangers of illicit drugs, warning that their effects could lead to loss of self-control and, in the case of water sports athletes, potentially result in drowning.
As Nigeria’s only individual Olympic gold medalist, Ajunwa urged the government to take a proactive stance in sports medicine to prevent doping scandals. She also mentioned that her foundation, the Chioma Ajunwa Foundation, is working tirelessly to educate young athletes about the dangers of illicit drugs.
Ajunwa expressed her commitment to partnering with the Navy Sailing Club to further educate athletes and support the growth of water sports in Nigeria.
In addition to her advocacy against drug misuse, Ajunwa brought attention to the high rate of eye cataracts in the country. She thanked the Chinese Embassy for its assistance in covering the costs of surgeries but noted that over 3,000 people are still awaiting treatment. She called on wealthy Nigerians and the corporate community to provide further support.
Captain Adewuyi, Commodore of the Navy Sailing Club, expressed his gratitude to Ajunwa for gracing the event and serving as a role model for young, aspiring athletes.
