FIFA Agent Drew Uyi Urges Mandatory Sexual Consent Education for Nigerian Footballers
FIFA-licensed international football agent, Dr. Drew Uyi, has made a compelling call to the National Sports Commission (NSC) and Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to introduce a compulsory safeguarding and sexual consent awareness programme for Nigerian footballers. This initiative is proposed to be mandatory before players compete internationally or relocate abroad, addressing growing concerns about player conduct and legal understanding in foreign jurisdictions.
Addressing Recent Incidents and Player Responsibility
Uyi emphasized the urgency of this proposal, citing recent incidents involving Nigerian players overseas that have highlighted issues with player conduct, personal responsibility, and comprehension of consent laws abroad. He specifically mentioned cases involving former Nigeria U-20 midfielder Daniel Daga and former Nigeria U-17 star Akinkunmi Amoo over the past three years, which have brought these critical matters to the forefront of public discourse.
"As an international FIFA football agent and a stakeholder in the development of Nigerian players, I feel a profound responsibility to contribute to this conversation," Uyi stated. "Sexual violence in any form is completely unacceptable. Respect, responsibility, and regard for others must remain core values for every athlete representing Nigeria at home and abroad."
Footballers as Ambassadors and Educational Gaps
Uyi further elaborated that footballers are not merely players but ambassadors of Nigeria, its culture, and national image. He noted that many Nigerian players move abroad at a young age, often entering societies with different legal systems, cultural expectations, and consent laws they may not fully understand. "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.
Proposed Programme Structure and Implementation
To bridge this educational gap, Uyi urged the NFF and NSC to adopt a proactive approach by making a structured online safeguarding and sexual consent awareness course mandatory. This programme should be required before participation in international tournaments, issuance of international transfer certificates, youth national team call-ups, and overseas club placements.
According to Uyi, the programme should comprehensively cover key areas including sexual consent laws across various countries, respectful relationships and personal boundaries, legal consequences of misconduct abroad, and the responsibilities that come with representing Nigeria on the global stage. "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 emphasized.
Protecting Nigeria's Football Reputation
Uyi warned that recurring controversies of this nature could severely damage the global reputation of Nigerian football. By implementing this educational programme, authorities can help ensure that players are better prepared for the challenges of international football environments, ultimately protecting both the athletes and the nation's sporting integrity.
