The Nigerian Boxing Board of Control (NBBofC) has firmly stated that there is no confusion regarding the governance of professional boxing in Nigeria, reaffirming its position as the sole regulatory body responsible for the sport.
In an official statement released on Wednesday, the Board dismissed claims suggesting that the Nigeria Boxing Federation intends to assume control over professional boxing. The NBBofC described such insinuations as unfounded and misleading, urging stakeholders to disregard them.
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“We wish to categorically state that such claims are unfounded and should be disregarded,” the statement read.
The Board clarified that the Nigeria Boxing Federation, formerly known as the Nigeria Amateur Boxing Association (NABA), is strictly responsible for amateur boxing, in line with global sporting structures, and has no jurisdiction over professional boxing.
Speaking on the matter, NBBofC President Rafiu Ladipo warned that any attempt by another body to take over professional boxing operations could lead to serious consequences.
He noted that such actions could create administrative conflicts, weaken regulatory standards, and expose athletes to risks due to inadequate oversight and lack of proper structures.
The Board also issued a strong advisory to promoters, managers, and boxers, urging them to remain cautious and avoid engaging with any unauthorized entities claiming to regulate professional boxing.
“We advise all promoters, managers, and boxers to remain vigilant and not be misled,” the statement added.
Industry observers have echoed the importance of clear regulatory authority, emphasizing that proper governance is critical to ensuring boxer safety, maintaining fair competition, and protecting Nigeria’s image in the global boxing community.
With this latest statement, the NBBofC has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining order and professionalism within the sport, calling on all stakeholders to adhere strictly to its rules, guidelines, and directives.
