In a bid to enhance grassroots boxing and support athletes ahead of the upcoming National Sports Festival in Ogun State, the Nigerian Military and Paramilitary Forces have distributed 500 pairs of boxing gloves to state sports councils and boxing clubs across the country.
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Speaking on behalf of the Nigeria Boxing Federation (NBF) President, Lt. Gen. Kenneth Minimah (rtd), Major Gen. Akinniyi Oladapo Oyelade (mni) led the distribution ceremony at the Old Skool Hall, National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos. He emphasized that the initiative aims to elevate boxing in Nigeria and ensure boxers are well-equipped for the competition.
“This gesture is part of our commitment to the development of boxing, especially at the grassroots level, and to support our athletes as they prepare for the Sports Festival in May,” he stated.
Acknowledging the declining state of Nigerian boxing, Gen. Oyelade reaffirmed the Military and Paramilitary Forces’ commitment to reviving the sport. He also highlighted efforts to attract corporate sponsorships and investments to restore Nigeria’s boxing legacy.
“We recognize the challenges boxing faces in Nigeria, but through continued support and strategic partnerships, we aim to change the narrative and bring the sport back to its former glory,” he concluded.
Among those present to receive the boxing gloves were NBF Secretary General Faseesin Olalekan, board members, state coaches from Enugu, Lagos, Ondo, and Ogun, club coaches, and key boxing stakeholders.
