Drew Uyi calls for mandatory Sexual Consent Awareness Course for Nigerian footballers

FIFA licensed and international football agent, Dr Drew Uyi, has appealed to the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to introduce a mandatory safeguarding and sexual consent awareness course for Nigerian footballers before they participate in international competitions or move abroad to seek greener pastures.

Drew Uyi said the call had become necessary following recent incidents involving Nigerian players overseas.

“Recent cases involving former Nigeria U-20 midfielder Daniel Daga and former Nigeria U-17 star Akinkunmi Amoo, occurring within the past three years have once again drawn serious attention to issues surrounding player conduct, personal responsibility, and awareness of sexual consent laws in foreign countries,” Drew Uyi said.

“As an International FIFA Football Agent and a stakeholder in the development of Nigerian footballers, I feel compelled to add my voice to this important conversation. First and foremost, it must be clearly stated that sexual violence in any form is unacceptable. Respect, responsibility, and the protection of others must remain fundamental values for every athlete who represents Nigeria at home or abroad. Footballers are not just players,; they are ambassadors of our country, our culture and our national image.

“At the same time, many of our young players move abroad at very early stages of their careers. They often arrive in countries with different legal systems, social expectations, and consent laws that they may not fully understand. While ignorance of the law can never be an excuse for misconduct, it highlights a critical gap in education, orientation, and preparation for players transitioning to international football environments.

“For this reason, I strongly believe the time has come for the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the National Sports Commission (NSC) to take proactive and preventive action. I respectfully call on these institutions to introduce a mandatory online safeguarding and sexual consent awareness course for all Nigerian players before: participation in any international tournament, approval of an international transfer certificate, youth national team call-ups and overseas club placements.

“Such a programme should educate players on sexual consent laws in different countries, respectful relationships and personal boundaries, the legal consequences of misconduct abroad and the responsibilities that come with representing Nigeria internationally.

“This initiative should not be viewed as punishment, but rather as a preventive measure focused on education, awareness, and protection for players, for potential victims, and for the long-term reputation of Nigerian football. From a brand and sports development perspective, repeated scandals of this nature damage the global image of Nigerian football. Our country has produced extraordinary talents admired across the world, and it is our collective responsibility as stakeholders to protect and strengthen that reputation.

“By investing in education and safeguarding today, we can help ensure that Nigerian players succeed not only on the pitch but also uphold the values expected of ambassadors of our great nation”, added Drew Uyi.