The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) has issued a three-year ban to Blessing Solomon, a Nigerian long-distance runner, following her positive test for Trimetazidine, a substance that is prohibited under anti-doping regulations. This announcement came after Solomon was tested at the Premium Trust Bank Half Marathon in Abuja last December. Trimetazidine is primarily used for the treatment of angina but has been classified as a metabolic modulator and banned since 2014 by the World Anti-Doping Agency, both in and out of competition.

The AIU's notification, sent on February 5, 2026, detailed an Adverse Analytical Finding, indicating possible violations of anti-doping rules. The case highlights the ongoing challenges within athletics concerning doping, as countries grapple with ensuring fair competition and athlete integrity. Solomon's suspension comes at a critical time when the spotlight is on Nigerian athletics given the nation's ambivalent history with doping violations.

This ban can have significant implications for Solomon's career, as it not only prevents her from competing but also tarnishes her reputation within the sports community. It raises broader questions about the resources allocated for athlete education regarding banned substances and the prevention of doping in sports, especially in countries with a rising profile in athletics like Nigeria. The AIU's decision also serves as a warning to other athletes regarding the importance of adhering to anti-doping regulations, emphasizing the consequences of violations.