Lagos set to host historic African boxing congress and gala night

By Matthew Ogunwale

Nigeria has officially secured the rights to host the inaugural African Boxing Congress and Gala Night, a landmark event scheduled for Sunday, 28 December 2025, in Lagos. This prestigious hosting right was confirmed in a letter from African Boxing, the continent’s governing body for Olympic-style boxing and an affiliate of World Boxing, the global authority for the sport.

The letter, addressed to the Nigeria Boxing Federation (NBF) under the leadership of Hon. Wale Edun, described Nigeria as a “strategic nation with the capacity to lead a holistic advancement of boxing in Africa.” This endorsement reinforces Nigeria’s growing influence in international sports administration and its readiness to play a pivotal role in the development of boxing across the continent.

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In the same communication, African Boxing announced the appointment of Hon. Omonlei Imadu, Vice President of the NBF, as a member of the African Boxing Working Committee. He will also serve as the Head of Organisation for the upcoming congress, demonstrating the trust placed in Nigeria’s leadership within the sport.

Speaking about this development, Hon. Imadu expressed confidence in Nigeria’s preparation and commitment to delivering a world-class event. “As a federation, we will do everything in our power to host a successful event in December. As the head of the organisation, I am particularly excited about the prospect of hosting the congress in Nigeria, as it will position both the NBF and our nation as a central point for the continent’s highest boxing decision-making body,” he stated.

With this hosting right, Nigeria is also in a favourable position to host the Africa Boxing Qualifiers for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, an opportunity that would significantly enhance the nation’s profile in global boxing circles.

The congress is expected to attract delegates from over twenty national boxing federations across Africa, providing an opportunity for strategic discussions, developmental planning, and long-term collaborations. This gathering will not only promote continental unity but also open doors for developmental programs that will support the growth of Olympic-style boxers in Nigeria.

In a significant boost to Nigeria’s standing, African Boxing has announced the establishment of its continental headquarters in Lagos, marking a historic shift that places Nigeria at the centre of boxing governance in Africa.

The Nigeria Boxing Federation reports that preparations are well underway to ensure that the inaugural congress and gala night set a high standard for future editions.