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Five Nigerian boxers have fought their way into the finals of the African Elite Men’s and Women’s Boxing Championships in Nairobi, a powerful statement of the depth, talent and fighting spirit inside the Nigerian team.
The five finalists are Ajishola Kadijat in the 54kg category, Precious Anine in the 65kg category, Orakwe Blessing in the 75 to 80kg category, Patricia Mbata in the 70 to 75kg category, and Ridwan Raheem in the 65kg category.
Each of them arrived in Nairobi with a dream, and each of them has now earned the right to fight for gold on the biggest stage on the continent.
Many of these athletes see this final as more than just a bout, it is the reward for years of sacrifice, discipline, early morning training, and belief in the green and white. From local gyms in Nigeria to the bright lights of Nairobi, they have carried the hopes of a nation on their shoulders and they have delivered.
Ajishola Kadijat has been calm, composed and clinical in the 54kg division, showing the sharpness that has made her one of the standout names of the tournament. Precious Anine has combined power and intelligence in the 65kg class, while Ridwan Raheem has also impressed in the men’s 65kg category with his strength, courage and fighting heart.
In the heavier divisions, Orakwe Blessing has been a force in the 75 to 80kg category, and Patricia Mbata has brought experience, confidence and a champion’s mindset to the 70 to 75kg class. Together, they represent a new generation of Nigerian boxing that is ready to shine.
These five finalists show the commitment of the Nigeria Boxing Federation, the coaches, and the entire support team to developing boxing in Nigeria, encouraging young talents to dream bigger, and ensuring that Nigerian champions are celebrated on the African stage.
The finals in Nairobi will bring together the best elite boxers from across Africa, with fans expecting drama, passion, and unforgettable moments from the first bell to the last. This is a chance for Nigeria to add more gold medals, to make history, and to prove once again that the country remains a powerhouse in African boxing.
Nigeria have amassed five medals thus far, with the latest medal coming from Ridwan Raheem who won silver in the 65kg category after losing a closely contested bout to Bernardo Massimino from Angola, with the match ending 3-2 in favour of the Angolan.
