Nigerian Boxers Shine at African Championships in Nairobi

Nigerian boxers have advanced to the finals of the African Elite Men’s and Women’s Boxing Championships held in Nairobi, Kenya, with five finalists: Ridwan Raheem, Ajishola Khadijat, Precious Anine, Blessing Orakwe, and Patricia Mbata. This achievement marks a significant turnaround for Nigeria's 10-member team, which initially faced difficulties, losing five bouts in the early rounds of the tournament.

Notably, Aishat Gbadamosi, Abdulramon Abdulwahab, Emmanuel Chuwuka, and Kenneth Anigboro suffered defeats against opponents from Algeria, Egypt, Kenya, and Uganda, leading to complaints regarding officiating. Raheem initiated the comeback by defeating Algeria’s Ismail Bekhsis in the men’s 60-65kg category.

Khadijat followed with a 5-0 victory over Kenya’s Amina Martha in the women’s 51-54kg category. Anine also secured a 5-0 win against Egypt’s Ayyad Yomna, while Orakwe stopped Uganda’s Aiwine Diana in the first round of the women’s 75-80kg category.

Capt. Rasulun Kashim, a board member of the Nigeria Boxing Federation and Head of Delegation, expressed confidence in the boxers' abilities to compete effectively.