Agent Drew Uyi Urges Mandatory Sexual Consent Education for Nigerian Footballers
FIFA-licensed international football agent, Dr. Drew Uyi, has issued a compelling call to the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). He is advocating for the introduction of a compulsory safeguarding and sexual consent awareness programme specifically designed for Nigerian footballers. This initiative is proposed to be a prerequisite before players compete internationally or relocate abroad for club placements.
Addressing Recent Incidents and Player Conduct
Uyi emphasized the urgency of this proposal, highlighting recent incidents involving Nigerian players overseas that have sparked significant concern. These cases have brought to light issues surrounding player conduct, personal responsibility, and a critical understanding of consent laws in foreign jurisdictions.
"Recent cases involving former Nigeria U-20 midfielder Daniel Daga and former Nigeria U-17 star Akinkunmi Amoo in the past three years have once again brought these issues to the forefront," Uyi stated. "As an international FIFA football agent and a stakeholder in the development of Nigerian players, I feel a responsibility to contribute to this conversation."
He firmly asserted that sexual violence in any form is unacceptable, stressing that respect, responsibility, and regard for others must remain core values for every athlete representing Nigeria both at home and abroad. "Footballers are not just players; they are ambassadors of our country, our culture, and our national image," he added.
The Challenge of International Transitions
Uyi pointed out a significant challenge: many Nigerian players move abroad at a young age, often entering societies with vastly different legal systems, cultural expectations, and consent laws that they may not fully comprehend. "While ignorance of the law is no excuse, it exposes a significant gap in the education and preparation of players transitioning to international football environments," he explained.
This gap, he warned, can lead to serious legal and reputational consequences, not only for the individual players but also for Nigerian football as a whole.
Proposed Proactive Measures
To mitigate these risks, Uyi urged the NFF and NSC to adopt a proactive approach. He recommended making a structured online safeguarding and sexual consent awareness course mandatory for players. This requirement would apply before:
- Participation in international tournaments
- Issuance of international transfer certificates
- Youth national team call-ups
- Overseas club placements
According to Uyi, the programme should comprehensively cover key areas, including:
- Sexual consent laws across various countries
- Principles of respectful relationships and personal boundaries
- Legal consequences of misconduct abroad
- The responsibilities that come with representing Nigeria on the global stage
A Preventive and Protective Initiative
Uyi clarified that this should not be viewed as a punitive measure. Instead, he framed it as a preventive and protective initiative designed to safeguard players, potential victims, and the integrity of Nigerian football. "This should not be viewed as a punitive measure, but as a preventive and protective initiative—one that safeguards players, potential victims, and the integrity of Nigerian football," he said.
He issued a stern warning that recurring controversies of this nature could severely damage the global reputation of Nigerian football, affecting future opportunities for players and the nation's standing in the international sports community.
