Sports
Boxing Coach Seeks Fans’ Support
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.
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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