The President of the Nigeria Boxing Federation (NBF), Wale Edun, has called on the national boxing team to uphold the country’s image. He delivered this charge during a visit to the team's training camp in Lagos on Tuesday. The Nigerian contingent is set to face Ghana in a high-profile friendly tournament at the Accra Sports Stadium this Thursday.
Edun reminded the athletes that the historic rivalry between Nigeria and Ghana remains intense even in friendly matches. He stated that the boxers must be conscious of the national flag they carry and fight with absolute pride. The federation leader emphasized that discipline and commitment are required to succeed on the international stage.
A 17-man delegation consisting of boxers, coaches, and officials departed Lagos on Wednesday morning for Accra. The team traveled via the Murtala Muhammed International Airport to settle in before the bouts begin. This friendly tournament serves as a key evaluation tool for both West African nations ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
The Chairman of the NBF Technical Committee, Babatunde Laguda, highlighted the importance of this trip. He noted that competing in a hostile environment is more beneficial than training in isolation. Laguda stated that the friendly would expose the boxers to a more competitive atmosphere. This exposure is vital as the team enters the final phase of preparations for the Glasgow Games.
NBF Vice-President Omonlei Imadu also confirmed that more international engagements are in the pipeline. The federation is currently in advanced talks to arrange similar friendly matches with two other nations. These efforts are part of a strategic plan to ensure Nigerian boxers are fully prepared for the Commonwealth Games.
The 2026 Commonwealth Games are scheduled to take place in Glasgow, Scotland, from July 23 to August 2. The NBF has invited 40 boxers to camp in Lagos to compete for the final ten spots on the plane. The federation is targeting a "ten boxers, ten medals" outcome to improve Nigeria's standing in global boxing.
ADD A COMMENT :