A large number of Nigerian professional boxers gathered at the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos, on Tuesday to stage a peaceful protest in support of the Nigerian Boxing Board of Control (NBBofC).
The boxers expressed their solidarity with the board and called for its continued authority in sanctioning professional boxing activities in Nigeria, rather than the Nigeria Boxing Federation (NBF).
The protest, which remained orderly and peaceful throughout, drew professional fighters, trainers, promoters, and other stakeholders from across the country. The participants carried placards and banners with messages emphasizing the importance of maintaining the existing structure that separates amateur and professional boxing governance in Nigeria.
Speaking during the protest, several boxers include: Taiwo Agbaje, Hamzat Idris, Chinedu Okeke and Abiodun Idris Afini, the Coordinator of the newly inaugurated Progressive Professional Boxers Association (PPBA) stated that the Nigerian Boxing Board of Control has historically overseen professional boxing in the country and has been responsible for licensing fighters, sanctioning bouts, and ensuring safety standards in the professional ranks.
They argued that the Nigeria Boxing Federation traditionally governs amateur boxing and Olympic-related activities, and that merging or transferring professional boxing responsibilities could create administrative confusion and disrupt the sport.
The protesting boxers also expressed concern about their careers, welfare, rankings, and international recognition, noting that professional boxing operates under different regulations from amateur boxing worldwide. According to them, maintaining the Nigerian Boxing Board of Control as the professional regulatory body aligns Nigeria with global boxing governance structures.
Some stakeholders at the protest called on the Federal Ministry of Sports to intervene and clearly define the roles of both bodies to avoid ongoing disputes that could negatively affect athletes and the growth of boxing in Nigeria.
Security personnel were present at the National Stadium to monitor the situation, but the protest remained peaceful with no incidents reported. The boxers concluded the gathering by urging authorities to listen to their concerns and protect the future of professional boxing in the country.
The situation highlights ongoing tensions within Nigeria’s boxing administration, as stakeholders continue to debate the appropriate authority responsible for professional boxing in the nation.
