Imadu backs Nigeria’s provisional LA 2028 boxing qualifier role

Nigeria has received provisional approval to host the African Continental Boxing Qualification Tournament for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, a decision Nigeria Boxing Federation vice-president Omonlei Yakubu Imadu believes can accelerate the sport’s development.

Imadu views the proposed qualifier as more than an opportunity to stage a major international competition. He believes bringing Africa’s Olympic qualification event to Nigeria could strengthen the country’s boxing structure while giving the continent another platform to develop its fighters.

The tournament would provide Nigerian boxers with access to high-level continental competition at home. It would also allow coaches, officials and administrators to gain practical experience in delivering an event linked directly to Olympic qualification.

The hosting opportunity fits with efforts to rebuild boxing in Nigeria. Imadu has been associated with grassroots projects including the Yucateco Boxing League, as well as initiatives focused on identifying young talent. His work has also involved backing boxing infrastructure and competitions intended to provide Nigerian fighters with more opportunities to gain experience.

A home qualifier could reduce the need for Nigerian boxers to travel abroad for every major qualification event. It would also give younger athletes the chance to observe and learn from leading continental competitors, while helping Nigeria strengthen its standing as a venue for significant boxing tournaments. Lagos has already developed an important place in the country’s boxing landscape.

The provisional approval also brings major organisational obligations for the Nigeria Boxing Federation. The federation would have to provide suitable facilities, effective logistics and competition standards capable of supporting an international Olympic qualification tournament. For Imadu, meeting those requirements would allow Nigeria to show that it can host the event while leaving a lasting benefit for boxing. The broader aim is to use the road to Los Angeles 2028 to build a stronger boxing system in the country.