Minimah and Bassey Named in Sports Ministry, Yucateco To Honor Boxers Today: Africa Links 24 News

Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-04-19 03:17:08

The Nigerian Boxing Federation (NBF) President, Gen. Kenneth Minimah (Rtd), the late Hogan ‘Kid’ Bassey, and national team coach, Tony Konyegwachie will be honored in Lagos today by the Ministry of Sports in collaboration with Yucateco Boxing Promotions. This event is part of Sports Minister John Owan Enoh’s initiative to recognize and appreciate athletes in the country.

Yucateco Boxing Promotions, the organizers of Nigeria’s first boxing league, are behind this event. According to the CEO, Omonlei Yakubu Imadu, the aim of the awards is to celebrate and acknowledge Nigeria’s boxing heroes, including boxers, referees, judges, and others who have contributed to the growth of the sport over the years. This recognition aligns with the sports minister’s vision for honoring athletes.

Imadu emphasized the importance of celebrating the legends of boxing in Nigeria and ensuring that the younger generation of boxers is duly recognized. The awards ceremony will highlight individuals who have brought glory to the nation through their achievements in boxing.

Among the recipients of the awards are former national middleweight champion Isaac Ikhuoria, Commonwealth Games gold medalist Sabo Mohammed, and current national boxing coach Anthony Konyegwachie. Additionally, 2011 African Games bronze medalist Lawal Lukmon Olaiwola, Nigerian boxing umpire Muyili Ojo, women’s boxing pioneer Edith Agu Ogoke, former national boxing coach Joseph Mensah, Ogun State boxing pioneer Ajani Aremu, boxing umpire Abdullahi Masha, Coach Samson Aransiola, and boxing umpire Adesanya Olusegun Ayodele will also be recognized.

The event is a testament to the rich boxing history in Nigeria and the significant contributions made by individuals in the sport. By honoring these boxing personalities, the Ministry of Sports and Yucateco Boxing Promotions are not only celebrating their achievements but also inspiring the next generation of boxers to aim for greatness.

As the awardees gather in Lagos to receive their honors, it serves as a reminder of the dedication and talent that have shaped Nigerian boxing over the years. The event signifies a commitment to preserving the legacy of boxing in the country and ensuring that the sport continues to thrive. It is a fitting tribute to those who have paved the way for the future of Nigerian boxing and a celebration of the resilience and excellence that define the sport.