As part of activities marking the inaugural National Boxing Week, the Nigeria Boxing Federation (NBF) paid homage to the legacy of Nigerian boxing legend Hogan Bassey.

 

In a colourful ceremony at his gravesite at the National Stadium Surulere, the Vice President of the NBF, Omonlei Imadu, alongside other board members, led a procession of boxers, coaches, officials, and fans to celebrate the former world champion.

 

Flowers were laid at the gravesite of the British-Nigerian pugilist whose achievements brought global recognition to Nigeria and continue to inspire a new generation of fighters.

 

Among notable personalities at the procession were Major General Ola Oyelade, the military representative on the NBF board, and the federation’s General Secretary, Vivian Azimene, among others.

 

The Boxing Week began on Monday with a well-attended seminar for coaches and officials, where participants engaged in discussions on technical development, officiating standards, and responsibilities within the squared ring. Competitive bouts commenced shortly after, with boxers contesting across various weight categories for spots at the forthcoming Commonwealth Games.

 

The National Open Trials are designed to provide a level playing field for both home-based and foreign-based athletes seeking the opportunity to represent Nigeria at the Games in Glasgow, Scotland.

 

Speaking on the opening day, Imadu described the event as a success despite minor challenges.

 

“We have started well despite a few setbacks. The boxing family is strongly united to ensure the entire event is successful. We are now focused on the bouts, and I can assure Nigerians that only the best boxers will be selected to represent the country at the Games in Glasgow,” he said.

 

The National Boxing Week will run until Friday, March 6, at the Brai Ayonote Boxing Gym, National Stadium Surulere. The initiative is expected to serve as a defining chapter in the resurgence of Nigerian boxing—blending history, reform, elite competition, and national pride into a landmark sporting celebration.