NAIROBI, KENYA — Team Nigeria has staged a remarkable comeback at the African Elite Men’s and Women’s Boxing Championships 2026 in Nairobi, Kenya, with five Nigerian boxers securing places in the finals despite a difficult start to the continental competition.
After suffering five defeats earlier in the tournament, Nigeria’s remaining fighters have demonstrated determination and resilience, keeping the country’s hopes of winning multiple gold medals alive.
Leading the resurgence is Ridwan Raheem, whose victory over Algeria’s Ismail Bekhsis in the men’s welterweight (60–65kg) category provided a major confidence boost for the Nigerian contingent.
Before his encounter, Raheem had expressed his determination to deliver a convincing performance that would leave no room for controversial judging decisions.
In the women’s 54kg division, Ajishola Khadijat produced an impressive performance, defeating Kenya’s Amina Martha by a commanding 5–0 unanimous decision to secure her place in the final.
Precious Anine also advanced following her semifinal encounter against Egypt’s Ayyad Yomna in the women’s 60–65kg category, strengthening Nigeria’s medal prospects.
Similarly, Blessing Orakwe booked her place in the final after overcoming Uganda’s Aiwine Diana in the women’s 75–80kg division.
Completing Nigeria’s five finalists is Patricia Mbata, who had already secured qualification for the championship’s final stage.
The achievement represents an encouraging turnaround for Nigeria’s 10-member contingent, which endured several disappointing results during the early stages of the championship.
Nigeria Boxing Federation board member and Head of Delegation, Capt. Rasulun Kashim, had earlier expressed confidence in the athletes, insisting that Nigerian boxers possessed the talent and determination to compete successfully against their continental counterparts.
With five finalists now confirmed by the Nigerian camp, attention shifts to the championship’s gold medal contests.
For Team Nigeria, the mission is no longer simply about recovering from early setbacks but converting five final appearances into continental glory.
The stage is set in Nairobi, and Nigeria’s boxing warriors have everything to fight for.
