National Boxing Week To Host Commonwealth Games Trials

National Boxing Week To Host Commonwealth Games Trials

By Our Reporter 

The Nigeria Boxing Federation (NBF) has confirmed that the maiden edition of National Boxing Week will be held from March 1–6, 2026, at the Brai Ayonote Boxing Complex in Lagos, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The week-long event will serve as a major celebration of Nigerian boxing and will be headlined by National Open Trials to select athletes who will represent the country at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. The trials are designed to align with the merit-based selection principles championed by the National Sports Commission of Nigeria.

In addition to competition, the event will honor the legacy of Nigerian boxing icon Hogan Kid Bassey, whose achievements brought international recognition to the country.

NBF President Edun Adewale Olawale underscored the significance of commemorating Bassey while charting a new direction for the sport.

“Hogan Bassey remains an enduring symbol of courage, excellence and national pride. We want to celebrate him with honor and inspire the next generation to understand what true sporting heroism represents,” Olawale said.

Merit-Based Selection Process

The National Open Trials will run throughout the March 1–6 programme and are open to home-based and diaspora athletes. Affiliated clubs, state associations and institutions are eligible to present one boxer per weight category.

Competition will be held across 10 weight divisions:

Men: 55kg, 65kg, 70kg, 80kg, 90kg

Women: 51kg, 57kg, 65kg, 70kg, 70+kg.

Olawale reiterated the federation’s commitment to transparency in athlete selection.

“The era of closed selections is over. Every boxer must earn the right to represent Nigeria through performance, discipline and merit,” he stated, encouraging eligible athletes worldwide to participate.

Development and Digital Reform

Beyond the ring, National Boxing Week will feature seminars for referees and coaches, orientation sessions for athletes focused on professionalism and conduct, and stakeholder forums aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s domestic boxing structure.

In a move toward modernization, the NBF will also unveil new digital initiatives, including an automated licensing system, a rebranded website and upgraded social media platforms. According to Olawale, these reforms are intended to enhance governance, transparency and athlete management.

“We are repositioning Nigerian boxing for global competitiveness — not only in performance but also in administration and technology. Governance must be as strong as the punches our athletes throw,” he said.

The inaugural National Boxing Week is expected to mark a pivotal moment for Nigerian boxing, combining elite competition, institutional reform and celebration of sporting heritage into a single landmark event.