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A total of 128 boxers, including four diaspora athletes, are currently locked in intense competition at the Brai Ayonote Boxing Complex in the National Stadium, Surulere, as the Nigeria Boxing Federation holds its open trials to select representatives for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.
The high-stakes trials, which drew an impressive turnout of 101 men and 27 women, have produced spirited performances across various weight categories.
Preliminary bouts kicked off on Tuesday, followed by the quarter-finals on Wednesday. The semi-finals are scheduled for Thursday, leading up to the championship bouts which will take place on Friday, March 6, in a carnival-like atmosphere running from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Vivian Azimene, the Secretary General of the Nigeria Boxing Federation, confirmed that the size of the final team heading to Glasgow was expanded following an intervention by Bukola Olopade, the Director General of the National Sports Commission.
“Initially, we were supposed to go with three women and three men. But after the visit of the DG, we’ve been promised five female boxers and five male boxers. In total, 10 athletes will represent Nigeria in boxing,” Azimene explained.
She expressed strong confidence that the rigorous open trial process would yield the most competitive team possible.
“That’s why we are doing the trial, to give all boxers the opportunity to be part of the team. We will ensure we pick those who will make the country proud,” the Secretary General added.
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For many of the participating athletes, the trials represent a career-defining opportunity. Sharafadeen Fawas, one of the competitors fighting for a spot on the roster, shared his excitement at the event.
“I’m glad to have the opportunity to participate. This shows the hard work and dedication I’ve put in. My expectation is to make the cut for the national camp and to show Nigeria how committed I am,” he said.
The competition spans across 10 specific weight categories. The five men’s divisions include 55kg, 65kg, 70kg, 80kg, and 90kg, while the five women’s divisions are 51kg, 57kg, 65kg, 70kg, and 70+kg.
Nigeria approaches the upcoming Glasgow Games with a strong boxing pedigree at the Commonwealth level.
During the 2022 edition held in Birmingham, the Nigerian boxing contingent fielded nine fighters and returned home with four medals. Elizabeth Oshoba secured a silver medal, while Cynthia Ogunsemilore, Jacinta Umunnakwe, and Ifeanyi Onyekwere each claimed bronze.
The 2026 Commonwealth Games are set to run from July 24 to August 1 at the SEC Centre in Glasgow, Scotland. Boxing will feature prominently across 14 events as part of a streamlined 10-sport programme for the Games.
