Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, has been elected the new President of the Nigerian Boxing Federation (NBF), following a unanimous vote at the federation’s elective congress held on Saturday at the Package B Indoor Sports Hall of the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
Edun, a long-time boxing enthusiast, was elected unopposed, securing all 12 delegate votes in a contest widely praised for its transparency and unity among stakeholders. His emergence marks a new era for Nigerian boxing, as expectations grow for renewed investment, structure, and international visibility in the sport.
“Our goal is to restore Nigerian boxing to its rightful place on the global stage through transparency, inclusion, and strong grassroots development,” Edun said in his acceptance speech.
The newly elected president pledged to introduce reforms targeting youth development, state-level competitions, and enhanced athlete welfare, emphasizing that his administration would prioritize both local and international competitiveness.
The election also produced Hon. Omonlei Imadu, representing the South-West, as Vice President, after he defeated his North-Central counterpart, Mighty Mike, by eight votes to four.
Imadu, a strong advocate for community-based sports development, hailed Edun’s victory as a “new dawn” for Nigerian boxing.
“The Honourable Minister’s passion for boxing is undeniable. His support for young boxers and commitment to grassroots initiatives speak volumes. We’ll work hand in hand to actualize his vision,” Imadu said.
He also commended the National Sports Commission (NSC), led by Mallam Shehu Dikko as Chairman and Hon. Bukola Olopade as Director General, for organizing what he described as a fair and transparent election.
Stakeholders say Edun’s entry into the NBF leadership brings credibility and the potential for stronger private-sector partnerships, setting the stage for what could be one of the sport’s most transformative eras in Nigeria.
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