Solomon tested positive for Trimetazidine at the Abuja Half Marathon, prompting provisional suspension and disqualification of results

Nigeria’s long-distance runner, Blessing Solomon, has been handed a three-year ban by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) of World Athletics after testing positive for a prohibited substance.

According to a statement issued by the AIU, Solomon tested positive for Trimetazidine following an anti-doping test conducted at the Premium Trust Bank Half Marathon held in Abuja in December 2025.

Trimetazidine is a medication commonly used to prevent angina attacks and chest pain caused by physical exertion. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) first classified the substance as a metabolic modulator in 2014, and it has since remained on WADA’s Prohibited List, banned both in and out of competition.

The AIU disclosed that Solomon was formally notified of the Adverse Analytical Finding on February 5, 2026, in line with Article 5.1.2.1 of the International Standard for Results Management (ISRM). She was subsequently placed under provisional suspension.

“The athlete was informed that the Adverse Analytical Finding may result in Anti-Doping Rule Violations pursuant to Rule 2.1 and/or Rule 2.2 of the Anti-Doping Rules,” the statement said.

Solomon was also advised of her rights, including the option to request analysis of the B sample, obtain laboratory documentation supporting the finding, or admit the violation. The AIU noted that an early admission could have attracted a one-year reduction in the period of ineligibility under Rule 10.8.1, provided it was made by February 12, 2026.

In addition to the ban, the AIU ordered the disqualification of all Solomon’s results from December 6, 2025, including the forfeiture of any titles, awards, medals, points, prize money, and appearance fees earned during the period.