By Ernest Victor | March 3, 2026, 10:05 AM
Commonwealth Games champions Efe Ajagba and Elizabeth Oshoba have lent their support and encouragement to Nigeria’s emerging boxing talent as the Nigeria Boxing Federation (NBF) officially opened national trials for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.
The trials commenced at the Brai Ayonote Boxing Complex within Lagos’ National Stadium, marking a highlight of the inaugural National Boxing Week, which runs from March 1 to 6. The week-long celebration of the sport also features seminars, orientation sessions, and stakeholder meetings aimed at elevating the standards of boxing in Nigeria.
Open to all affiliated clubs, state associations, institutions, and eligible Nigerian boxers across the globe, the trials will identify top talent strictly on merit in 10 weight categories — five for men and five for women.
Ajagba, who clinched a bronze medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games before making waves in the professional circuit, urged young athletes to remain determined despite challenges.
“I want to encourage youths, not only boxers, to keep striving and putting in their best effort. Circumstances may be tough, but passion should never fade,” said the 31-year-old heavyweight.
Currently ranked eighth by The Ring magazine, Ajagba recently boosted his professional record to 21 wins, one loss, and one draw after a fourth-round stoppage of former IBF champion Charles Martin in Las Vegas. He emphasized the importance of blending natural strength with skill to excel internationally.
“African fighters are naturally strong and powerful. My advice is to build on that power with technique, because that’s what truly sets us apart. Alongside our physical strength, we also have the mental toughness developed through hard work and perseverance. That combination is what makes champions,” he added.
For Oshoba, who won silver at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, the trials represent a critical platform for rising stars.
“These trials are the dream stage for many boxers. I’ve been there, and I know what it feels like to represent Nigeria. My advice is simple: give your absolute best and make the selectors have no choice but to pick you,” said the 26-year-old, currently the IBF No.1 super lightweight contender.
Oshoba made history in January 2024 as the first Nigerian female boxer to win a world title, stopping Italy’s Michela Braga to claim the WBC Silver Featherweight Belt. She highlighted that success on the global stage is attainable with dedication and self-belief.
“Moving from national trials to standing on the Commonwealth podium is possible. I’ve lived it. Talent alone is not enough — preparation, belief in yourself, and readiness for the moment are key,” she emphasized.
NBF Vice President Omonlei Imadu pointed out that the participation of foreign-based Nigerian boxers signals increasing confidence in the federation’s reforms.
“This is a new chapter for Nigerian boxing. The return of athletes from abroad to compete here shows that the processes we are building are credible. Selection will be competitive, but it will be fair and entirely based on performance,” Imadu said.
The men’s trials will cover the 55kg, 65kg, 70kg, 80kg, and 90kg divisions, while women will compete in the 51kg, 57kg, 65kg, 70kg, and over 70kg categories. Registration for each boxer is set at ₦10,000.
Beyond the competition, National Boxing Week will feature joint seminars for referees and coaches, athlete orientation sessions, and stakeholder meetings aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s domestic boxing landscape. The federation is also set to unveil a digital licensing system and a new governance framework as part of ongoing efforts to modernize the sport’s administration.
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