Olarewaju Agiri, a veteran journalist and boxing expert who serves as the Secretary of the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBofC), Oyo State Chapter, has expressed optimism about the future of boxing in Nigeria.
Agiri shared his insights during an exclusive interview on the weekly Yoruba sports program “Bebe Lórí Òdàn,” hosted by the award-winning sports journalist Olusola Alabi, known as Ijoba Sports, on Adamimogo 105.FM Ibadan on Thursday.
The Oyo NBBofC scribe, also used the opportunity to discuss the potential of boxing as a lucrative sport.
“Few people realize the financial opportunities in boxing. It’s a significant sport with considerable benefits, though often underestimated. Our Nigerian boxers have enjoyed substantial successes over the years. We have successful professional boxers, and we are committed to creating an environment that will enhance further successes in the sport,” he said.
He also emphasized the importance of starting boxing training at a young age.
“A child can begin boxing practice as early as five years old, and by age ten, they can be in excellent shape. We need to promote boxing and emphasize that it deserves attention. Increased publicity from journalists will support our efforts as a boxing body. While football often receives the spotlight, it’s crucial to also focus on promoting boxing,” Agiri added.
Agiri praised the National President of the NBBofC, Dr. Rafiu Oladipo, the Secretary General, Mr. Remi Aboderin and the Chairman of the Oyo State Chapter, Hon. Gbenga Opaleye, for their significant contributions to improving the sport’s environment in Nigeria. He assured boxing and sports enthusiasts across the country that the NBBofC is dedicated to elevating the sport.
He also urged school sports directors to include boxing in their programs to create opportunities for aspiring boxers. Additionally, Agiri highlighted the differences between amateur and professional boxers.
Agiri called on major companies in Nigeria to invest in boxing events, noting that such investments would support grassroots boxers and provide valuable promotion and advertising opportunities for the companies involved.
Packaged by Dare Raji
