Sports
Nigeria Boxing Federation Boss Resigns Minimah Steps In
The crisis in the Nigeria Boxing Federation (NBF) came to a head on Saturday, when the President, Rotimi George-Taylor, resigned, claiming that he had achieved his objective of being the NBF chief.
Tidesports source reports that Brig.-Gen. Kenneth Minimah, the General Officer Commanding, 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, took over as the new NBF President.
Although no reason was given for George-Taylor’s resignation, it might, however, not be unconnected with the dismal performance of Nigerian boxers at the just-conlcuded 19th Commonwealth Games in New Delhi.
At the head of the crisis was the decision not to take boxers from the middleweight to the heavyweight class to the Games as well as alleged favouritism in the selection of the team, which was blamed on the former president.
The former president incurred the wrath of the Sports Minister/Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Ibrahim Bio, during the Games when he was seeking the Minister’s blessing to contest for membership of the International Amateur Boxing Association (AIBA).
The heated board meeting held at the National Stadium, Lagos, was specifically convened to effect the change in the federation’s leadership.
Emerging from the meeting in full army gear, Minimah told anxious newsmen that boxing was in a deplorable state and promised the new NBF leadership would do everything within its power to reverse the situation.
“Boxing is in a serious state of decline and it needs to be urgently revived and restored to its former pride of place.
“I promise to do my very best to ensure that the process is revived in all its ramifications,’’ he said.
George-Taylor said he stepped down voluntarily, claiming that the decisions he took while in office were in the best interest of boxing.
The former president said he still remained a member of the board and expressed confidence that the new NBF chief would succeed.
In another development, estranged boxing Chief Coach, Obisia Nwankpa, has been restored to his position, while Idika Nsofor remained as the Technical Adviser.
The Bayelsa State government, yesterday, announced that the marathon will be held on Saturday, April 4, 2026.
The inaugural race is owned by the Bayelsa State Government and will be organised by Nilayo Sports Management Limited, a sports management company.
Under the theme “The Reveal,” the race represents a bold unveiling of Bayelsa’s immense human and cultural potential to the international community, inviting the world to witness the resilience, grit, and talent rooted in the heart of the Niger Delta.
According to the organisers, the race will be flagged off at 9:30 a.m., at the Opolo Roundabout, guiding participants through a carefully designed 10-kilometre route that highlights the scenic beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Yenagoa.
The course will culminate at Peace Park Square, where athletes will cross the finish line into a grand celebration of endurance, unity, and community spirit.
To elevate the experience for runners and spectators alike, the finish venue will host a high-energy post-race concert featuring performances from top A-list artistes, blending sport and entertainment in a festival-style atmosphere.
The organisers directed all registered participants to collect their race bibs and kits at the designated Peace Park Square between March 30 and April 3, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily.
The race, according to them, is currently on track for World Athletics accreditation, underscoring the commitment of both the Bayelsa State Government and Nilayo Sports Management Limited to delivering an event that meets the highest global standards.
The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, on Friday continued the Commission’s nationwide appreciation tour with a visit to Abeokuta, where outstanding junior athlete, Majekodunmi Afusat Bisola, was presented with a cheque of N3 million.
The presentation forms part of the NSC’s initiative to recognise and reward exceptional junior athletes who distinguished themselves in 2025 and contributed significantly to Nigeria’s medal haul.
Majekodunmi delivered an impressive run of performances on the track. At the last edition of the National Sports Festival, she stormed to gold in the 400m and the 4x400m relay. She replicated the double triumph at the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) Junior Championship, in Abeokuta, before emerging as one of the standout stars at the African Youth Games in Luanda, Angola.
Speaking during the presentation, Olopade explained that the Commission deemed it necessary to extend financial appreciation to grassroots athletes after elite performers had earlier received grants running into thousands of dollars.
“A few weeks ago, after paying grants to our elite athletes, we agreed tthere was a need to also appreciate these young, budding talents who made Nigeria proud last year,” he said.
He disclosed that of the 376 medals recorded by Nigerian athletes in 2025, more than 200 were won by grassroots talents, underscoring the importance of sustained investment in youth development.
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