Africa in Focus as Nigeria, Kenya Lead Athletics’ Drug Violations List

By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu

Africa in Focus as Nigeria, Kenya Lead Athletics’ Drug Violations List

Africa has come under renewed scrutiny in global athletics, with Nigeria and Kenya listed among the nations facing the highest level of monitoring over drug-related rule violations.

The Athletics Integrity Unit, in its latest update under Rule 15 of the World Athletics Anti-Doping framework, placed seven countries in Category A — the strictest classification. Alongside Nigeria and Kenya are Russia, Ukraine, Ethiopia, Belarus and India.

India’s move into the top-risk group follows a steady rise in recorded violations over recent years, with the country repeatedly ranking among those with the highest number of cases globally.

The AIU noted that its anti-doping systems have not kept pace with the scale of the issue, prompting closer oversight.

While some nations remain under tight watch, Bahrain is moving in the opposite direction.

After implementing major reforms — including stronger testing structures and an independent anti-doping system — the country is expected to drop to Category B by 2027 if improvements continue.

Under Rule 15, countries in Category A face the toughest conditions.

Their athletes must undergo a set number of out-of-competition tests before they can compete on the global stage, a measure aimed at protecting fairness in the sport.

Meanwhile, Botswana, Peru and Cuba, though still in Category B, will now be required to meet stricter testing conditions ahead of major competitions due to gaps in their programmes.

With this latest reshuffle, the AIU is reinforcing a clear message:

countries must strengthen their systems or face tighter restrictions, as athletics continues its push for a cleaner and more transparent future.

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Chioma Ndukwu

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