Tunde Popoola, Secretary General of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, has stated that there is ‘no cause for fear’ ahead of the July 12 final judgement by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) on claims by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) that the country is non-compliant with the anti-doping code.

Fifteen days before the 2024 Olympics in Paris, the destiny of Nigerian athletes competing in the country’s name hangs in the balance, with an unfavourable decision causing Nigeria and the athletes to lose some privileges during the Games and later editions.

Popoola, on the other hand, assuaged concerns by stating that the NOC had been able to restore order.

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“We have gone past the area of failing. We have done virtually everything necessary and it’s just get to court when they are ready.

“So, there is no cause for alarm and we are going to function just the way it should be.

“One thing is that the anti-doping committee is supposed to be independent and once we have done that and other necessary things, things will be alright.”

Before Friday’s decision, key officials from the Ministry of Sports Development and other government agencies, as well as three foreign lawyers engaged to defend the case, are said to be in Lausanne, Switzerland, for the hearing.

The claims of noncompliance and the sanctions are expected to have an immediate impact on Nigeria following the CAS’s verdict on July 12.

If Nigeria is found guilty, the WADA Compliance Review Committee recommends that the country’s flag not be flown at the Paris Olympic Games or other contests.

This means that Nigerian competitors will not participate under the country’s name or code, and if they win a medal, there would be no space for Nigeria’s anthem or flag to be displayed.

The country will also be unable to host any big sporting events unless the reinstatement conditions are completed.