In a determined resurgence, the Nigeria Boxing Federation (NBF) has launched an ambitious campaign to secure a spot for its pugilists at the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
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Following a noticeable decline in performance in recent Games, the NBF is leaving no stone unturned to ensure that Nigerian boxers shine on the international stage once again.
The stage is set for the African qualifying campaign to unfold in Dakar, Senegal, from September 6 to 16. Nigeria, once a powerhouse in Olympic boxing, has struggled to make its mark in recent years.
The nation’s last boxing medal dates back to Duncan Dokiwari’s bronze in the super heavyweight category in 1996.
Regrettably, Nigeria failed to even qualify for the Rio 2016 Games and missed out on participation in the Tokyo 2020 edition.
With a renewed sense of purpose, the NBF has taken steps to rectify past shortcomings.
The federation has embarked on intensive preparations, assembling 14 boxers spanning seven weight categories at the National Stadium in Lagos.
According to the NBF Secretary General, Dapo Akinyele, the ultimate goal is clear: secure Olympic qualification. Akinyele emphasized Nigeria’s rich boxing history and abundance of talent, expressing confidence that the nation’s boxers possess the prowess to make their mark on the Olympic stage once again.
The national team coach, Anthony Konyegwachie, echoed this sentiment, noting the high spirits and dedication of the boxers during their rigorous training sessions.
The team operates on a dual-camp system, one in Nigeria and another in the United Kingdom, catering to different weight categories.
To bolster their chances, Konyegwachie stressed the need for unwavering support, including modern training equipment and motivation for the athletes.
Nigeria’s recent performance at the African Boxing Championship in Cameroon demonstrated a glimmer of hope, with one gold, one silver, and two bronze medals secured.
Building on this success, the nation aims to achieve even greater heights on the boxing stage.
As the African qualifiers draw near, all eyes are on the NBF and its cadre of skilled boxers. With a rich history and a renewed determination, Nigeria is determined to reclaim its status as a dominant force in Olympic boxing.
The journey towards Paris 2024 has commenced, and Nigeria’s pugilists are poised to leave an indelible mark on the world stage once again.
