The Brai Ayonote Boxing Complex at the National Stadium in Surulere has come alive, as a total of 128 boxers, including four diaspora athletes, are locked in fierce competition, each determined to secure one of the 10 coveted places on Nigeria’s boxing team for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.

According to the Secretary General of the Nigeria Boxing Federation (NBF), Vivian Azimene, the trials involve 101 men and 27 women.

“Initially, we were supposed to go with three women and three men,” she explained. “But after the visit of the Director General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, we have been promised five female boxers and five male boxers. In total, 10 athletes will represent Nigeria in boxing.”

Azimene praised the athletes for their spirited performances, noting the presence of diaspora fighters would produce the strongest possible team.

“The expectation is to get the best,” she said. “That is why we are doing the trial to give all boxers the opportunity to be part of the team. We will ensure that we pick those who will make the country proud.”

For many of the athletes, the trials are more than just competition, as it gives them a chance to prove themselves.

One of the boxers, Sharafadeen Fawas, said: “I’m glad to have the opportunity to participate. This shows the hard work and dedication I have put in. My expectation is to make the cut for the national camp and to show Nigeria how committed I am.”

The trials began on Tuesday with preliminary bouts stretching late into the night. Quarter-finals followed yesterday (Wednesday), while semi-finals are scheduled for today after medical tests and weigh-ins.

The climax will come tomorrow (Friday), with final checks and the championship bouts, wrapped in a carnival atmosphere from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Competition spans 10 weight categories, five for men (55kg, 65kg, 70kg, 80kg, 90kg) and five for women (51kg, 57kg, 65kg, 70kg, +70kg).

Nigeria’s boxing pedigree at the Commonwealth Games is strong. At the 2022 Games in Birmingham, the team fielded nine fighters led by captain Abdul-Afeez Osoba, returning home with four medals, made up of one Silver (Elizabeth Oshoba) and three Bronzes (Cynthia Ogunsemilore, Jacinta Umunnakwe, Ifeanyi Onyekwere).