The Oyo State Chapter of the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBofC) has concluded plans to organize a three-day training course for boxing referees and judges commencing from Thursday, 28th August, as arrival to Sunday, 31st August, as departure at Ilaji Hotels and Sports Resorts, Akanran, Ibadan.
The Chairman of Oyo NBBofC, Hon. Gbenga Opaleye, explained that the initiative aims to improve officiating standards of professional boxing in Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole, stressing that the program, which doesn’t come often, is a lifetime opportunity for boxing enthusiasts nursing an ambition of becoming a boxing ring official to realize their dream.
Photo captions: Hon. Gbenga Opaleye (right) and some prominent Oyo State boxers
“We have decided to bring very reputable referee-judge trainers that have officiated across the world to impart their wealth of experience and knowledge to our aspiring referees and judges. When officiating is not good, you can’t expect your sport to grow. But when you have good officiating, it encourages the sport to grow,” he noted.
Opaleye added that “after the three-day course, a certificate of participation will be issued to all participants, while successful boxing referees that pass the stipulated exams and are adjudged qualified will be decorated with an NBBofC badge that qualifies such individuals as professional boxing referees.”
However, he urged sports’ enthusiastic individuals in Oyo State to rally the association by sponsoring or supporting the event, stating, “It’s a significant event that will transform our professional boxing in Oyo State, demonstrating our serious approach to boxing in this state.”
Oyo NBBofC Secretary Olanrewaju Agiri also stated that the training represents a significant advancement in the board’s efforts to elevate professional boxing standards in Oyo State.
“This training is a crucial investment in our officials’ development. We’re not just teaching rules; we’re building capacity for better decision-making and more professional officiating in Oyo State boxing,” Agiri said.
He emphasized that this initiative would not only enhance the officiating skills of the participants but also inspire confidence in the sport among boxers and fans alike. With ongoing support and commitment, Oyo State is poised to become a prominent hub for professional boxing in Nigeria.
