Edun praises young boxers as LBHF celebrates 150th championship

Former Finance Minister Wale Edun has praised young boxers for their dedication and performances. This was during the Lagos Boxing Hall of Fame's 150th divisional championship in Yaba, Lagos, over the weekend, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.

Edun, who started the non-profit initiative in 2010, spoke highly of the boxers at the one-day tournament. The event took place at the Mobolaji Johnson Sports Centre, Rowe Park. It featured 10 bouts, including matches for both men and women, and two exhibition fights with secondary school students.

The monthly competition is organized with the Lagos State Boxing Association. It serves as a platform to discover and develop amateur boxing talent in Lagos. The tournament rotates among five divisions in the state: Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island, and Epe.

This latest edition attracted boxers from 10 local councils and LCDAs. It was especially important as it marked the 150th time the competition has been held on the last Saturday of every month.

Edun praised the initiative for helping young talents grow and giving them chances to show their skills. He noted how crucial the divisional championships are in the race for the Governor’s Belt.

“Champions from Ikorodu, Badagry, Ikeja, Lagos Island, and Epe will box on December 26 for the overall IBILE Champion title. The champion of champions will receive the Governor’s Belt,” he said.

The Governor’s Belt contest will gather divisional champions from all over Lagos. This season-ending event will decide the state’s overall amateur boxing champion.

Meanwhile, Ibrahim Akolade from Mainland was named the best boxer at the Lagos Central Division championship. He won against Isah Jimoh from Lagos West LCDA with a strong performance that included great footwork, sharp jabs, and a strong uppercut.

Akolade said the award is a reward for his hard work and a big step toward his professional goals.

“I feel proud because I worked hard and deserved it. I thank God Almighty, LBHF, my supporters, and coaches. This award means so much to me because I have been looking for opportunities to showcase my talent.

“I see myself winning the WBC title in the future. I want people to remember my name, Akolade Ibrahim once boxed and was a great boxer,” he said.

LBHF Director David Mohammed also shared his happiness about the competition's growth. He mentioned that the introduction of the IBILE Championships has raised the competition level among boxers.

“The excitement is increasing, and everything is going according to plan. The IBILE Championships bring more competition and passion. Ultimately, the Governor’s Belt ensures only the best of the best emerge as Lagos champions,” he said.