Nigeria Names 10-Punch Power Squad For 2026 Commonwealth Games After Lagos Trials

According to Ireporter Online, Nigeria has unveiled its 10-member boxing squad for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow following the conclusion of the national open trials at the Brai Ayonote Boxing Complex, National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

The four-day trials, organised by the Nigeria Boxing Federation, featured 148 competitors—121 men and 27 women—competing across 10 weight divisions. Winners in each category earned the right to represent the country at the Games.

Among the standout performers was UK-based Patricia Mbata, who claimed gold in the women’s 70kg division to secure her spot on the national team. Mbata, the 2023 African Games champion, had received a video message from former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua encouraging her to strive for victory.

Other female boxers who qualified include Udoette Happiness (51kg), Ajishola Kadijat (57kg), Sodipe Damilola (65kg), and Edoka Celestine (+70kg). The male qualifiers are Ogunremi Michael (55kg), Wahab Abdurrahman (65kg), Folly Hassan (70kg), Daniel Joshua (80kg), and Anigbodo Kenneth (90kg).

Technical Director Babatunde Laguda praised the athletes and officials for their commitment throughout the grueling trials. “Most bouts extended late into the night, but fairness was ensured in every contest. Winning does not always indicate being the best, so some outstanding boxers will still be invited to camp as sparring partners. Their contributions will be vital to the team’s success,” he said.

Secretary-General Vivian Azimene added that selected boxers will proceed to camp, while other impressive fighters from the trials will also be invited to support preparations as sparring partners.

Nigeria aims to surpass its performance from the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, where a nine-member squad led by captain Abdul-Afeez Osoba returned with four medals. Elizabeth Oshoba won silver, while Cynthia Ogunsemilore, Jacinta Umunnakwe, and Ifeanyi Onyekwere claimed bronze medals.

The 2026 Commonwealth Games, scheduled from July 24 to August 1 at the SEC Centre in Glasgow, will feature 14 boxing events evenly divided between men and women, alongside athletics, swimming, gymnastics, cycling, netball, bowls, and basketball.