The coordinator of Progressive Professional Boxers Association (PPBA) of Nigeria, Afinni Idris Abiodun has disclosed that the major aim of the newly inaugurated body is to provide assistance for pugilists beyond the ring.
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Sports247 reports that Abiodun was speaking against the backdrop of last weekend’s installation of PPBA’s executive committee, whose biggest duty he said is to protect boxers’ rights, improve their welfare and standardize contracts.
Abiodun added during the ceremony that took place at Police College, Ikeja, Lagos that the committee members will focus on efforts to promote unity, education, social development, financial stability and career development for professional boxers.
The event drew a number of dignitaries and sports stakeholders, including the president of Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBB of C), Dr Rafiu Ladipo, as well as his vice president, Prince Adetoye Olofin and other personalities.
Among those who were inaugurated into the PPBA’s executive committee along with Abiodun were two assistant coordinators – Obinna Mathew and Kabiru Towolawi – as well as the secretary, Sikiru Sogbesan.
Others are two treasurers – Samuel Opaogun and Bolatito Oluwole; three public relations officers – Victor Chikalele, Celina Agwu and Chinedu Okeke; as well as three organising secretaries – Farouk Abubakri, Obaro Eradajaye and Blessing Chukwuede.
Abiodun disclosed further that their objectives including providing support initiatives, adequate funding, healthcare and insurance coverage for boxers, for which a support fund will be established to ease financial burdens.
He added, “We will partner with top healthcare providers to ensure access to quality medical care. A support fund will be created to help boxers focus on their careers without financial strain.
“Boxers will always carry injury that is why we are working towards having health insurance and healthcare for boxers. We are not doing this for ourselves alone, but for those coming behind us.
“Footballers and other athletes have achieved significant success, but many boxers are yet to enjoy similar benefits. We believe we can do better. With unity and collective effort, we can improve the fortunes of professional boxing in Nigeria.
“As the leadership of this association, we are committed to taking professional boxing to greater heights. We have heard the concerns of boxers and are ready to act. Our goal is to build a sustainable system that supports boxers beyond the ring.”
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