By TAYO TAIWO (T. T.) OLUWOLE

Lagos to Host Commonwealth Games Boxing Trials During National Boxing Week

NIGERIA’S road to the 2026 Commonwealth Games will begin in Lagos as the Nigeria Boxing Federation stages its inaugural National Boxing Week from 1–6 March at the Brai Ayonote Boxing Complex.

The flagship event will headline National Open Trials to select athletes for Team Nigeria’s boxing squad to Glasgow. The selection format aligns with reforms promoted by the National Sports Commission of Nigeria, emphasizing transparency and merit.

NBF President Edun Adewale Olawale said the federation is determined to restore credibility to athlete selection.

“We are repositioning Nigerian boxing for global competitiveness — not only in performance but also in governance,” he said.

Open and Competitive

The trials are open to boxers from across Nigeria and the diaspora. Each affiliated body may register one athlete per weight division, ensuring broad participation.

Ten categories will be contested across men’s and women’s events, providing a comprehensive pathway for selection.

Men: 55kg, 65kg, 70kg, 80kg, 90kg
Women: 51kg, 57kg, 65kg, 70kg, 70+kg

The week will also honor Hogan Kid Bassey, celebrating his legacy as a pioneer who brought global recognition to Nigerian boxing.

Modernization Drive

In addition to ring action, the NBF will introduce digital reforms, including automated licensing and enhanced online platforms aimed at improving athlete data management and administrative efficiency.

Workshops for coaches and referees, alongside athlete professionalism sessions, are also planned as part of a broader development strategy.

By merging competition, reform and heritage, National Boxing Week signals a fresh chapter for Nigerian boxing — with Glasgow 2026 firmly in sight.