The Interim President of the Nigeria Boxing Federation, Azania Omo-Agege, has strongly opposed any efforts to introduce transgender boxing in Nigeria.
Speaking on Wednesday in Abuja, Omo-Agege made it clear that the federation will not support such initiatives, expressing concerns over the anticipated visit of World Boxing Federation President, Boris Vandervorst.
According to Omo-Agege, Vandervorst has been a leading figure in promoting transgender boxing globally.
“He became prominent when he allegedly gave the World Boxing platform to controversial Algerian transgender boxer, Imane Khalif, to participate in the Paris Olympics,” Omo-Agege stated.
The NBF president emphasized that the majority of Nigerian boxers come from military backgrounds, referencing President Bola Tinubu’s recent ban on transgender individuals in the military.
“You know that the majority of the boxers that represent Nigeria are from the military circle, and you recall recently that President Bola Tinubu had pronounced a ban on transgender in the military.
“So, do you want them to disobey the President because they want to represent Nigeria? This is the reason we will not welcome it in the country,” he asserted.
Omo-Agege criticized those within the Nigerian Olympic Committee who support the initiative, accusing them of putting personal interests above the nation’s sporting integrity.
He questioned why individuals responsible for Nigeria’s recent doping scandal, which led to bans, are still allowed within the country’s boxing scene.
He warned that introducing transgender boxing could have a damaging impact on the sport in Nigeria.
Omo-Agege urged Nigerian sports authorities to carefully evaluate the situation while keeping in mind President Tinubu’s stance on transgender participation.
Praising international figures who have contributed positively to Nigerian boxing, he commended the International Boxing Association President, Umar Kremlev, for his continuous support, citing the recent donation of 500 boxing gloves to Nigerian boxers as a testament to his commitment.
He also lauded Africa Boxing Confederation President, Eyassu Wossen, for his role in advancing the sport across the continent.
