Paragraph 1: Embracing Global Standards in Nigerian Boxing
The Nigeria Boxing Federation (NBF) has officially adopted the newly ratified weight categories established by World Boxing, the internationally recognized governing body for the sport. This decision, announced in a competition advisory to all stakeholders, directly impacts the upcoming 22nd National Sports Festival, scheduled to be held in Abeokuta, Ogun State. The NBF, as an affiliate of World Boxing, emphasized its commitment to adhering to the international federation’s regulations and statutes, ensuring alignment with global standards in the sport. This move marks a significant step towards harmonizing Nigerian boxing with the international landscape, promoting consistency and facilitating participation in global competitions.
Paragraph 2: Addressing Confusion and Clarifying Weight Categories
The NBF’s advisory comes in response to concerns raised by several state boxing coaches regarding the weight categories to be used at the National Sports Festival. Niger State Boxing Head Coach Ismail Raji exemplified this confusion, highlighting the circulation of two differing weight category tables and the resultant uncertainty among coaching staff. The NBF promptly clarified the situation, confirming the adoption of the new World Boxing weight categories, effective from January 1, 2025. This clarification aims to eliminate ambiguity and ensure that all participating states prepare their athletes according to the standardized weight classes.
Paragraph 3: Detailed Breakdown of New Weight Categories
The newly adopted weight categories present a structured framework for both men’s and women’s boxing. The men’s division now comprises ten weight classes, ranging from Flyweight (47-50kg) to Super Heavyweight (90kg+). This comprehensive range accommodates boxers of varying sizes and ensures fair competition across different weight divisions. Similarly, the women’s division also features ten weight categories, spanning from Light Flyweight (45-48kg) to Heavyweight (80kg+). This expanded range in the women’s division reflects the growth and development of women’s boxing, providing more opportunities for female athletes to compete at the national level.
Paragraph 4: Preparing for the National Sports Festival: Blue Cards and Participation Guidelines
In addition to clarifying the weight categories, the NBF also provided instructions regarding participation in the National Sports Festival. All participating states are required to obtain new Blue Cards from the NBF Secretariat, essential documentation for athlete registration and participation. This ensures that all boxers are properly registered and meet the necessary requirements for competition. The advisory emphasized that this information supersedes any previous communications regarding weight categories or participation guidelines, solidifying the adoption of the new World Boxing standards for the National Sports Festival.
Paragraph 5: Competition Format and Athlete Entry Limits
The National Sports Festival boxing competition will follow a specific format, allowing each state to enter one male boxer per weight category in the 13 men’s divisions and one female boxer per weight category in the 12 women’s divisions. This structure ensures representation across all weight classes while maintaining a balanced competition. The maximum number of entries per state is capped at 13 male boxers and 12 female boxers, promoting fair representation and providing opportunities for athletes from various states to showcase their skills.
Paragraph 6: Facilitating Open Communication and Ensuring Smooth Implementation
To address any further inquiries or concerns, the NBF provided contact information for Secretary General Olalekan Faseesin, encouraging stakeholders to reach out for clarification. This open communication channel aims to facilitate a smooth transition to the new weight categories and ensure all participating states are well-informed and prepared for the National Sports Festival. With the registration portal for the event expected to open soon, this proactive approach seeks to minimize confusion and ensure a successful and compliant competition under the newly adopted World Boxing standards.
