By Victor Okoye
Abuja, Dec. 7, 2024 (NAN) The Nigeria Association of Sports Medicine (NASMED) says it is set to revolutionise sports medicine in the country in order to safeguard athletes from career-ending injuries.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that NASMED President, Dr Olajide Adebola made the remarks while marking the association’s 30th anniversary with a symposium on Friday in Abuja.
The theme of the symposium was “Charting a New Path for Sports Medicine in Nigeria”.
Adebola highlighted NASMED journey from inception to becoming a leading professional body.
He explained that the body was founded to provide an independent platform for sports medicine practitioners.
He noted that the association had grown into a multidisciplinary powerhouse, bringing together experts ranging from sports physicians to psychologists.
He said the association will be working with relevant bodies to establish a sports ecosystem in the country.
“We as an association is committed to working collaboratively with relevant bodies to establish a comprehensive sports ecosystem.
“This includes integrating sports physiotherapy, psychology, nutrition, and other key disciplines to pave the way for producing more professionals in these fields. Without this effort, we won’t have enough skilled hands across Nigeria.
“It’s vital to address the needs of two categories of athletes: elite athletes who compete for fame and podium finishes, and recreational athletes who frequent fitness and wellness centers,” he said.
In his own submission, the president of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Engr Habu Gumel said he is committed to ensuring the association strengthens its capacity to support athletes.
“What we are doing here is truly significant, and it is vital to promote this effort across Nigeria.
“As the President of the NOC, I am committed to ensuring that both Olympic sports and non-Olympic sports receive the attention they deserve.
“This seminar is especially important because it raises awareness about the work of NASMED and its impact nationwide.
“I lend my full support, and I assure you that the NOC will continue to back NASMED as it grows and strengthens its capacity to support athletes, foster the learning movement, and contribute to the development of the country as a whole,” he said.(NAN)
