The Boxing Promoters Association of Nigeria (BPAN) has found itself embroiled in internal conflict, marked by the resignation of several founding members. Chairman Omonlei Imadu, however, refutes claims of mismanagement and attributes the departures to jealousy stemming from his successful initiatives, primarily the YUCATECO Boxing League. He argues that his efforts to reform and elevate the sport have threatened those who benefit from the existing, allegedly corrupt, system. Imadu asserts that his detractors are uncomfortable with his league’s growing popularity and visibility, which they perceive as a challenge to their established positions. He questions how his personal investment in developing boxers and providing resources could be interpreted as hindering the sport’s advancement. The chairman insists his actions are solely aimed at improving the welfare of boxers and fostering the growth of boxing in Nigeria.
The recent resignations, including those of Vice Chairman Waheed Alabi and Spokesperson Edna Aiyegbeni, have exposed underlying tensions within the fledgling organization. Imadu dismisses accusations of attempting to undermine established boxing institutions and signing underage boxers. He clarifies that the developmental program he runs is akin to football academies and emphasizes the importance of nurturing young talent. Regarding underage signings, he challenges his accusers to provide concrete evidence, emphasizing the commitment to ethical practices within the organization. He highlights the BPAN Care program, a partnership with Ikeja National Hospital, which provides free healthcare services to boxers, including MRI scans and hepatitis screenings, as evidence of his commitment to the boxers’ well-being. Imadu expresses bewilderment at the opposition to such a beneficial initiative.
Imadu questions the commitment of the departed members, claiming they failed to pay their dues and actively obstructed progress within BPAN. He suggests their jealousy stems from the league’s growing prominence, which overshadowed other boxing activities. The chairman alleges that personal ambitions also played a role, citing the vice chairman’s stated desire to form a separate association and assume a leadership position. These internal divisions, he argues, are rooted in individual aspirations for power and control, rather than genuine concern for the sport’s development. He maintains that his focus remains on enhancing boxing in Nigeria and ensuring the welfare of its athletes.
Addressing allegations of undermining established authorities, Imadu clarifies that BPAN supports government efforts and has even contributed prize money to government-organized competitions. He emphasizes the need for unity among boxing organizations and calls for an end to infighting. He believes that collaborative efforts, rather than competitive rivalry, are crucial for the overall advancement of the sport. He urges all stakeholders to prioritize the betterment of boxing and the welfare of the athletes, suggesting that personal agendas should take a backseat to collective progress.
Imadu stresses the importance of focusing on the bigger picture, urging stakeholders to put boxers first. He believes that jealousy, hatred, and backbiting are detrimental to the sport’s growth and advocates for collaborative efforts. He envisions a unified boxing community working together to elevate the sport in Nigeria, free from internal conflicts and personal ambitions. The chairman’s vision emphasizes a future where the focus is solely on developing boxing talent and ensuring the well-being of the athletes, rather than internal power struggles.
The future of BPAN, and indeed Nigerian boxing, hinges on the ability of its leaders to overcome internal divisions and work towards a common goal. Imadu’s leadership is being challenged, and the organization’s success will depend on his ability to rally support and implement his vision. The departing members’ grievances will need to be addressed, and a clear path toward unity and collaboration must be established. Whether BPAN can emerge stronger from this internal strife remains to be seen. The sport’s stakeholders must decide whether personal ambitions or the collective good will drive their actions.
