NBBofC, NBF in power tussle over control of boxing

NBBofC, NBF in power tussle over control of boxing

A silent power tussle is brewing between the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBofC) and the Nigeria Boxing Federation (NBF) over who should regulate professional boxing in Nigeria.

While the NBF, through a statement from its Vice President, Hon Omonlei Imadu is pushing to regulate professional boxing, the president of the NBBofC, Dr Rafiu Ladipo has warned the NBF to stay off as it is not within its jurisdiction.

Imadu has proposed that the NBF assumes regulatory authority over professional boxing in Nigeria but Dr Ladipo insists the NBF was encroaching as it only has responsibility to regulate amateur boxing in Nigeria. 

In an official statement released on Wednesday, the NBBofC emphasized that it remains the only recognized body responsible for the regulation, control, and sanctioning of professional boxing across the country.

“The attention of the Nigerian Boxing Board of Control has been drawn to insinuations that another body intends to assume regulatory authority over professional boxing in Nigeria. We wish to categorically state that such claims are unfounded and should be disregarded,” the statement read.

The Board further clarified that the Nigerian Boxing Federation’s mandate is limited to amateur boxing, in line with international sporting structures, and does not extend to the professional ranks.

According to Dr. Rafiu Ladipo, the President of NBBofC, any attempt by another organization to assume control of professional boxing could create administrative conflicts, undermine standards, and potentially expose athletes to risks due to lack of proper oversight.

The Board also used the opportunity to caution stakeholders, including promoters, managers, and boxers against engaging with unauthorized entities claiming regulatory powers.

“We advise all promoters, managers, and boxers to remain vigilant and not be misled by such insinuations. The NBBofC remains fully committed to its responsibility of regulating and sanctioning professional boxing in Nigeria in accordance with established rules and international best practices,” the statement added.

Industry observers note that clear regulatory authority is essential for maintaining boxer’s safety, ensuring fair competition, and preserving Nigeria’s reputation in the global boxing community. For now, the NBBofC has reaffirmed its continued resolve to oversee professional boxing, urging all participants to adhere strictly to its guidelines and directives.