Nigeria has withdrawn from the Youth Olympics in the Chinese city of Nanjing, state media reported Saturday, as four African nations battle the worst outbreak of the Ebola virus in decades.

According to AFP, Nigeria's decision was confirmed by International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach in Nanjing of China.

The IOC had said on Friday athletes from Ebola-hit countries would be barred from competing in pool events and combat sports.

The decision, which affects three athletes whose names and nationalities were not identified, was made "to ensure the safety of all those participating", the IOC and Chinese organisers said.

According to the Youth Olympics' website, there were a total of 25 people on the team lists of Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea and Nigeria, the west African countries affected by the outbreak.

The Youth Olympic Games begin Saturday in Nanjing, China's former capital, and run until August 28.