Francis Ajuonuma, Lagos
Chairman of the Nigeria Boxing Series, Azania Omo-Agege has expressed optimism that the competition which commenced early in the month will help produce future world champions for the country.
Omo-Agege, who is also a board member of Nigeria Boxing Federation (NBF), representing the South -South zone told The Authority at the weekend that countries that have adopted the Association of International Boxing for Amateurs (AIBA) programme have always done well at the Olympics and other international meets.
According to him the Nigeria Boxing Series which is his idea will assist in the discovery of raw boxing talents and offer more competition to amateur boxers in the country.
While expressing satisfaction with the performance of the boxers so far in the competition, Omo-Agege, charged the boxers to be disclined and hard working.
“Honestly, i’ve been impressed with the performance of the boxers so far in this boxing league. We’ve discovered a lot of raw talents here, who if trained and exposed would be future world champions and that is what this programme is all about.
“It’s a programme in the AIBA calendar of event and I’ve decided to copy it and introduce it in Nigeria because most countries, who have adopted this programme have always done well at the Olympics and I believe if we are able to manage this programme well in the country soon we’ll produce boxers who will dominate the world,” he said.
He commended President Muhammad Buhari for supporting the development of boxing and sports in general in the country.
I want to use this opportunity to appreciate the President Muhammad Buhari for his support to the development of the Nigerian youths through sports,” he added, while charging corporate bodies and wealthy Nigerians to support the programme.
Meanwhile, in some of the fights decided, Kayode Mubarak defeated Femi Daniel in the 52 kg clash while Omole Dolapo beat Saheed Abdulahi in the 57 kg just as Yunisa Mujid defeated Fatai Ajadi in the 63 kg.
In the other fights, Osoba Abdulafeez was victorious over Adeyemi Segun in the 69 kg with Okenla Dayo beating Akintola David in the 75 kg while Lucky Handsome defeated Rasheed Idowu in the 81 kg.
Also, Eze Chukwunonso defeated Ogbuche Okechukwu in their 91 kg clash with Christian Timothy defeating Segun Ibrahim in the +91 kg.
The season one of the tournament will end in March, 2020 while the season two will start in November/ December next year.
