The President of the Nigerian Boxing Board of Control (NBB of C), Dr. Rafiu Ladipo, has warned against encroachment on the board’s responsibilities by the Nigerian Boxing Federation (NBF), as he inaugurated the newly formed Progressive Professional Boxers Association of Nigeria at the Ikeja Police College, Lagos, on Saturday.
Dr. Ladipo recalled that boxing once put Nigeria on the global map. He traced this to a historic fight in 1947 at the African Tennis Club, Lagos, where Horgan Bassey emerged victorious.
He urged members of the new association to uphold the ethics of the profession and work towards elevating the sport.
“I want to congratulate all of you. I can see you representing Nigeria on global stages. I am encouraged by what I see, and I pray that God continues to guide and support you in all your endeavours.
“You have a capable leader in your coordinator, Mr. Biodun Idris Afinni, someone who is bold enough to speak out. You are licensed by the NBB of C as boxers, but some of you have yet to renew your licences for the year.
“You have a regulatory body, and it is important to obtain your licence annually. We charge minimal fees because we are passionate about your growth. I have attended several boxing events and noticed that many of you only show up when you are fighting. You need to be present more often to learn and correct mistakes.
“You also need insurance as professional boxers. Globally, boxers are insured, and such coverage ensures compensation when necessary,” he said.
Ladipo described the alleged attempt by the NBF to control professional boxing as “laughable and shameful.”
“It is unfortunate for individuals with little understanding of professional boxing to consider taking over its management.
“The mandate of the NBF is to develop grassroots boxing and prepare amateur boxers for competitions such as the All African Games, Commonwealth Games, and the Olympics. Unfortunately, they have not fully delivered on this responsibility.
“They are now attempting to venture into an area they do not understand. Some of us have spent decades in boxing. I have been involved for over 30 years, starting as a promoter before becoming President of the NBB of C.
“I have travelled extensively to support Nigerian boxers; Las Vegas with Samuel Peters, and New York City during his victory, Wembley Stadium to support Anthony Joshua, and even Wales. I have done all this without government funding,” he said.
He stressed that professional and amateur boxing are distinct and should remain so, urging the NBF to focus on grassroots development.
“The NBB of C remains committed to supporting every boxer. I am not afraid of anyone in boxing or football.
“I have spent 53 years in sports and aim to leave a legacy that Nigerians will remember. This is not about boasting, but about sharing experience so you understand the journey.
“I have made my money; I am not seeking wealth. What I desire now is longevity and a lasting legacy,” he added.
In his remarks, the Coordinator of the association, Mr. Idris Afinni, noted that many professional boxers in Nigeria have not reached their full potential.
“We are not doing this for ourselves alone, but for those coming behind us. Footballers and other athletes have achieved significant success, but many boxers are yet to enjoy similar benefits.
“We believe we can do better. With unity and collective effort, we can improve the fortunes of professional boxing in Nigeria.
“As the leadership of this association, we are committed to taking professional boxing to greater heights. We have heard the concerns of boxers and are ready to act. Our goal is to build a sustainable system that supports boxers beyond the ring,” he said.
Afinni highlighted key initiatives, including improved medical care and insurance coverage for boxers, a support fund to ease financial burdens, and career transition programmes for retiring athletes.
“We will partner with top healthcare providers to ensure access to quality medical care. A support fund will be created to help boxers focus on their careers without financial strain.
“For retired boxers, we will establish career transition programmes because boxing is not just a sport! it is a career.
“We are also committed to improving fight purses and ensuring fair compensation, especially for international bouts,” he added.
He further assured that the association would ensure fairness in dispute resolution.
“We will guarantee fair hearing in all disputes. Controversial decisions will be thoroughly reviewed through an independent panel to ensure transparency,” he said.
Afinni also announced plans to launch a Boxer Welfare Fund, establish a Hall of Fame to honour legends, secure endorsement deals through partnerships, and collaborate with government agencies for funding.
“We will work with promoters, managers, and coaches, as well as the NBB of C, to host more international bouts in Nigeria.
“Our goal is to create opportunities for Nigerian boxers to compete for world titles and achieve global recognition,” he said.
