The Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBB of C) has announced plans to collaborate with the Ogun State Boxing Association to develop amateur boxing talents and elevate them to prominence. The Board’s President, Dr. Rafiu Ladipo, shared this during a working visit to the Ogun State Boxing Association in Abeokuta on Tuesday.

Dr. Ladipo, represented by the Ogun State Coordinator of the Board, Dr. Demolu Okuneye, stated that the Board’s presence in the state aims to enhance the growth of boxing in Ogun State.

He emphasized that the Board is also focused on registering promoters for both Olympic (formerly amateur) and professional boxers, to attract more boxing events to Ogun State, develop officiating talents, and expose boxers to global boxing trends.

In response, the Chairman of the Ogun State Boxing Association, Mr. Chris Somide, praised the Board for its initiatives and commendable efforts to rejuvenate boxing in the state.

Somide, represented by Dr. Razaq Oyadiran, urged the Board to support career boxers in transitioning from Olympic to professional levels.

He also encouraged the NBB of C to revisit the rule that prevents Olympic boxers from being members of the Board as professional boxers.

Welcoming the NBB of C’s collaboration, Somide highlighted the need for strong cooperation between the Board, the association, and the Federation.

“I urge you to focus on supporting career boxers, helping them progress from Olympic to professional levels. We should also reconsider the rule that restricts Olympic boxers from being members of the Board as professionals simultaneously,” Somide stated.