The Nigeria Boxing Federation (NBF) has announced plans to start early preparations for the 2028 Olympics after a disappointing performance at the Paris 2024 Games. Interim President Azania Omo-Agege revealed the revival of the Nigerian Boxing League as part of efforts to improve the sport in the country.
“There is a perception that most of our boxers are from the streets. We are working to change that, and we need constant competition to do that,” Omo-Agege told The PUNCH.
At the Paris Olympics, Nigeria’s boxing hopes were dashed when Adam Olaore was eliminated in the round of 16 in the men’s 92kg category. The team also faced setbacks with Cynthia Ogunsemilore’s doping disqualification and Dolapo Omole’s injury withdrawal.
To address these issues, Omo-Agege aims to bring back the Nigerian Boxing League to keep boxers in top shape, reduce distractions, and ensure regular training. Preparations for the Paris 2024 Games were hindered by leadership conflicts between Omo-Agege and former NBF president Kenneth Minimah, which disrupted coaching arrangements.
The federation’s Technical Director, Babatunde Laguda, criticized the choice of coach Adura Olalehin, stating, “He does not even have a training gym where he trains boxers.” Boxers also complained about poor training conditions, with Ifeanyi Onyekwere describing the one-week camp as “very bad” and stressful.
Omo-Agege expressed optimism that prize money from the International Boxing Association would motivate boxers, adding that attending more competitions would better prepare the team for the Olympics. Nigeria’s last Olympic boxing medal was Duncan Dokiwari’s bronze in the super heavyweight category at the Atlanta Games in 1996.
“When we attend more competitions, it will put us in a good position to go out for international games where we can prepare ourselves for the Olympics,” Omo-Agege concluded.
