Nigeria’s due for an Olympic gold medal in boxing, says Sports Minister, Enoh

Sports Development Minister,  John Owan Enoh, has reiterated the Federal Ministry of Sports Development’s determination to nurture boxing talent at both grassroots and national levels. This dedication was underscored as the Ministry forged a new partnership with Yucateco Boxing Promotion (YBP) aimed at promoting the sport throughout Nigeria.

Enoh facilitated the partnership as he hosted the YBP team, led by Omolei Y. Imadu, at the Ministry on Thursday. The collaborative effort signals a significant step forward in enhancing the visibility and support for boxing within the country.

‘The cornerstone and future of our sports resides at the grassroots level thus I am excited to engage with individuals who work at the grassroots level,’ remarked Enoh. ‘Our country has a glorious past in boxing, but it is gradually losing that glory. Nigerians have the innate ability to excel in any sports, including boxing. Having won Olympic gold medals in long jump and football we should win a gold medal in boxing.’

‘Through strategic partnerships such as this with Yucateco Boxing Promotion, we aim to tap into the vast talent pool within our nation and provide avenues for aspiring boxers to excel on both national and international platforms.’

The partnership between the Ministry of Sports Development and Yucateco Boxing Promotion is expected to yield a range of initiatives aimed at nurturing talent, organizing competitions, and providing necessary support structures for athletes across Nigeria. By leveraging the expertise and resources of YBP, the Ministry will foster a thriving boxing ecosystem that empowers athletes and contributes to the overall development of sports in the country.

Furthermore, Enoh emphasized the urgent need for the establishment of a national boxing championship as a means to sustainably promote and develop the sport across Nigeria. He stressed that such a league would not only provide a structured platform for competition but also serve as a catalyst for identifying and nurturing emerging talent.

‘Nigeria has a rich history in boxing, and it’s time for us to reclaim our position on the global stage,’ stated Enoh. ‘While people like you work on the grassroots level, you can upscale and work on the national level, for example by organizing a national boxing championship. With the establishment of a national boxing championship, we can provide consistent opportunities for our boxers to hone their skills, compete at a high level, and ultimately strive for Olympic glory.’