The Nigeria Boxing Federation (NBF) has unveiled plans for early preparations ahead of the 2028 Olympics, aiming to rebuild after a disappointing campaign at the Paris 2024 Games.

NBF Interim President Azania Omo-Agege announced the revival of the Nigerian Boxing League as a core strategy to develop the sport. “There is a perception that most of our boxers are from the streets. We are working to change that, and we need constant competition to do that,” she said.

Nigeria’s boxing efforts at Paris 2024 fell short, with heavyweight Adam Olaore bowing out in the round of 16. The team also faced setbacks with Cynthia Ogunsemilore’s disqualification due to doping and Dolapo Omole’s injury withdrawal.

Omo-Agege emphasized the league’s importance, stating, “It will keep our boxers in shape, take them out of trouble, and ensure consistent training.” She also highlighted prize money from the International Boxing Association as a motivating factor for athletes to stay competitive.

Internal conflicts prior to Paris 2024, including a leadership dispute between Omo-Agege and former NBF President Kenneth Minimah, hampered preparations. The controversial replacement of coach Tony Konyegwachie with Adura Olalehin further impacted the team, with Technical Director Babatunde Laguda questioning Olalehin’s qualifications.

Limited training time also plagued the team, with boxer Ifeanyi Onyekwere lamenting, “The preparation was very bad. It was just a one-week camp, with a lot of stress.”

Omo-Agege aims to address these challenges by increasing participation in competitions to strengthen Nigeria’s chances of ending its Olympic boxing medal drought, which dates back to Duncan Dokiwari’s bronze at Atlanta 1996.