Former Minister of Finance Wale Edun has praised young boxers for their dedication and performances as the Lagos Boxing Hall of Fame celebrated the 150th edition of its divisional championship in Yaba, Lagos.
Edun, who founded the non-profit initiative in 2010, spoke during the one-day tournament at the Mobolaji Johnson Sports Centre, Rowe Park, which featured 10 bouts involving male and female boxers, alongside two exhibition contests for secondary school students.
Organised in partnership with the Lagos State Boxing Association, the monthly championship has become an important platform for identifying and developing amateur boxing talent across the state.
The competition rotates among Lagos’ five divisions — Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island and Epe — and has been staged consistently on the last Saturday of every month.
The 150th edition attracted boxers from 10 local councils and Local Council Development Areas, further highlighting the reach of the grassroots programme.
Edun said the initiative was helping young boxers gain valuable competitive experience while providing a pathway towards the Governor’s Belt, which will determine Lagos’ overall amateur boxing champion.
“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,” Edun said.
The Governor’s Belt contest will bring together the divisional champions in a season-ending championship to determine the state’s overall amateur boxing king.
Meanwhile, Ibrahim Akolade of Mainland emerged as the standout boxer at the Lagos Central Division championship after defeating Isah Jimoh of Lagos West LCDA 4.
Akolade impressed with his footwork and sharp combinations before sealing the contest with a decisive uppercut.
The young boxer described the recognition as a reward for his hard work and a major step towards his professional ambitions.
“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,” Akolade said.
He added that he dreams of becoming a WBC champion and wants his name to be remembered in boxing history.
LBHF Director David Mohammed said the introduction of the IBILE Championships had intensified competition among the boxers.
“The excitement is increasing, and everything is going according to plan. The IBILE Championships inject more competition and passion. Ultimately, the Governor’s Belt ensures only the best of the best emerge as Lagos champions,” Mohammed said.
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