Team Nigeria’s boxing contingent has touched down in Saudi Arabia ahead of the 6th Islamic Solidarity Games, signaling the nation’s intent to compete for medals in Riyadh.
The team, which arrived in the early hours of Monday, is set for final preparations before the gloves come off at the multi-sport event.
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Led by head coach Oyeleye Abayomi, the squad comprises Raheem Ridwan (65kg) – Welterweight and Adeshina Zainab (51kg) – Flyweight, both of whom wrapped up a three-week intensive training camp in Abuja before departure. The camp, according to officials, was designed to sharpen conditioning, improve tactical discipline, and strengthen medal prospects.
This year’s Games run from November 7 to 21, with the boxing event scheduled to begin on Thursday, November 5—positioning the Nigerian duo among the early contenders to step into the ring.
Vice President of the Nigerian Boxing Federation (NBF), Hon. Omonlei Imadu, who inspected the camp before their departure, expressed confidence in the boxers’ readiness. He affirmed that the Federation is “optimistic of a strong performance” and expects the athletes to showcase resilience, discipline, and podium ambition.
The Islamic Solidarity Games bring together athletes from Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member nations across 21 sports and 2 para-sports. This year marks Saudi Arabia’s second time hosting, after staging the maiden edition in 2005.
With a streamlined but motivated squad, Nigeria’s boxing hopes rest on Ridwan and Zainab—both looking to punch above their weight and return home with medals that reinforce Nigeria’s growing credibility in the global boxing arena.
