NASMED charts new path for sports medicine in Nigeria

The Nigeria Association of Sports Medicine (NASMED) is set to lead the charge to transform sports medicine in Nigeria, with a focus on safeguarding the physical and mental health of athletes. To commemorate its 30th anniversary, NASMED hosted a symposium in Abuja with the theme “Charting a New Path for Sports Medicine in Nigeria.” The […]

The Nigeria Association of Sports Medicine (NASMED) is set to lead the charge to transform sports medicine in Nigeria, with a focus on safeguarding the physical and mental health of athletes.

To commemorate its 30th anniversary, NASMED hosted a symposium in Abuja with the theme “Charting a New Path for Sports Medicine in Nigeria.” The event showcased the association’s evolution from its establishment as an independent professional body to becoming a multidisciplinary hub, uniting experts ranging from sports physicians to psychologists.

Speaking at the symposium, NASMED President, Dr. Olajide Adebola, emphasized the association’s dedication to creating a robust sports ecosystem in Nigeria while being committed to preventing doping, promoting well-being, and fostering physical activity across the general population, NASMED is setting new standards for sports and exercise medicine in the country.

“We are committed to collaborating with relevant bodies to establish a comprehensive sports ecosystem. This includes integrating sports physiotherapy, psychology, nutrition, and other key disciplines to foster the development of skilled professionals in these fields. Without this effort, we will face a shortage of expertise across Nigeria. It’s crucial to address the needs of both elite athletes, who compete for podium finishes, and recreational athletes, who frequent fitness and wellness centers,” Dr. Adebola stated.

The 30th-anniversary celebration also featured the launch of the NASMED Impact Programme 2024–2028, a strategic plan designed to enhance national Sports and Exercise Medicine (SEM) policies.

Engr. Habu Gumel, President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), also reaffirmed his support for NASMED, highlighting the importance of its work in strengthening the country’s sports framework.