The Nigeria Boxing Federation (NBF) has released the list of boxers selected to represent the country at the maiden edition of the African Boxing League, scheduled to kick off in April.

The inaugural championship will feature pugilists from over 20 African nations, marking a major milestone in the development of professional and elite boxing on the continent.

In preparation for the competition, the NBF Technical and Tournament Committee has named 41 boxers across various weight categories to fly Nigeria’s flag.

Men’s Team

The men’s squad includes Sodiq Oduniyi, Samuel Dahusi, and Raymond Abodunrin (all 55kg); Musefiu Quam, Abdulahi Robiu, and Ajisola (60kg); Abdulrahman Abdulwahab and Ridwan Raheem (65kg); Michael Babalola, Ibrahim Yakubu, and Alata (70kg).

Also listed are Daniel Joshua, Prince Gardy, and Chuwka Emmanuel (80kg); Jamiu Saheed, Olomitutu Michael, and Ifeoluwa Ogunniyi (90kg); as well as Agbadike Emmanuel, Ebuka Henry Obierika, and Adeniyi Adesoji (90kg+).

Women’s Team

The women’s contingent features Ayomide Mayowa, Amirah Oluwatoyin, and Adesina Zainab (51kg); Aliyat Olalekan and Aliyat Ganiyu (54kg); Kadijat Ajisola, Akinremi Asisat, and Shoyombo Anuoluwapo (57kg); Asisat Gbadamosi and Adeniji Aliyat (60kg).

Others are Sakirat Kareem (60kg); Damilola Sodipe, Omolayo Adaramola, and Jinadu Akimot (65kg); Blessing Orakwe, Adaobi Onara, and Onyechi Anya (70kg); alongside Queen James, Mary Bassey, and Chidimma Nmugeu (70kg+).

Coaching Crew

The coaching team is made up of Lasisi Mayowa, Sabo Mohammed, Tolani Balogun, Waheed Sobaloju, Kamol Wahab, Penda Agwhlolo, Kemi Adebayo, Gift Ituonye, Alice Alumbugu, and Mary Ekpo.

The draws for the African Boxing League will take place in March, with Team Nigeria set to travel across the continent for away fixtures, while home bouts will be staged in Nigeria.

Speaking on the development, NBF Vice President, Hon. Omonlei Imadu, disclosed that the boxers will resume camping later this month as part of preparations for the historic tournament.