The Head Coach, Nigeria Boxing Federation (NBF), Obisia Nwankpa, has called on the sport’s fans to support the federation in preparing boxers for competitions.

Obisia told newsmen  in Lagos recently  that the federation’s resources would not be enough to prosecute activities in its 2011 calendar.

The federation will commence its activities with preparation for the qualifiers of the All Africa Games in Maputo, Mozambique.

He said that such support would act as a stop-gap measure until funds were released by the federal government to the federations.

“We don’t intend to wait until the very last minute for expected funds before we start preparing our boxers for the competitions we have lined up this year.

“That is why we are calling for support from fans to augment what we have at hand to see that our boxers are adequately prepared for the tournaments.

“We intend to open our camp at the end of the month and invited boxers will need the requisite equipment and dietary requirements to be in shape,” he said.

Obisia said that the recent decision by the National Sports Commission (NSC) to withdraw Nigeria from the boxing event in the London 2012 Olympic Games would stunt the sport’s growth.

“I hope the NSC will rescind its decision, if not it will have an adverse effect on our boxing programme.

“In boxing, the Olympic Games are the ultimate platform for boxers to prove their mettle in the pugilistic trade and subsequently excel in their professional career.

“Denying our boxers this opportunity because of a poor outing in the last Commonwealth Games in India will stunt the growth of the sport,” he said.

The former National and Commonwealth Light Welterweight champion added that poor outings in recent times should be a wake-up call for stakeholders to revive the sport.