The National Sports Commission (NSC) has praised the success of the recently concluded National Open Boxing Trials held in Lagos, describing the event as a major step toward strengthening Nigeria’s preparations for upcoming international competitions.
The trials, organized by the Nigeria Boxing Federation (NBF), as part of the National Boxing Week attracted a large number of elite fighters, including boxers from across Nigeria and others from the diaspora with Nigerian heritage who traveled from different parts of the world to compete for national selection.
Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, commended the Nigeria Boxing Federation for organizing a successful event and emphasized the importance of including diaspora athletes in Nigeria’s talent development strategy.
“A total of 147 boxers entered the national trials, which also served as Commonwealth Games trials. We were particularly pleased to see fighters from the diaspora with Nigerian heritage come home to compete. This fits perfectly into our strategy of giving opportunities to our children abroad to represent Nigeria just like every other Nigerian, as we work to ensure the country is represented by the very best hands and legs.”
“We are energized by the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has created an enabling environment for sports to thrive, and that momentum is cascading down to the federations. We are hopeful that Nigeria will excel at the Commonwealth Games.”
“We thank the President and leadership of the Nigeria Boxing Federation for putting together an excellent week of boxing. The level of organization and the quality of competition we witnessed are strong indicators that Nigerian boxing is moving in the right direction.”
In total, 147 boxers took part in the competition, which also served as a key selection event for Nigeria’s preparations toward the Commonwealth Games.
The highlight of the Friday night finals was the thrilling 70kg showdown between Patricia Mbata and Blessing Orakwe, a bout that captured the intensity, skill, and drama that define the sport of boxing.
Mbata, who is based in the United Kingdom, faced Lagos-based Orakwe in a highly anticipated rematch. The encounter carried extra intrigue, as Orakwe had previously defeated Mbata at the National Sports Festival. However, this time the script flipped dramatically, with Mbata delivering a determined performance to claim victory and secure a sweet revenge in the 70kg final.
The contest drew admiration from fans and officials alike, showcasing both the beauty and competitiveness of the sport while highlighting the growing depth of Nigeria’s boxing talent pool.
He added that the Commission’s evolving strategy places strong emphasis on athlete support and development.
“We have changed our approach to sports administration. Our focus now is to take better care of our athletes because when athletes are supported and valued, they will always take care of the nation with their performances.”
