The Nigeria Boxing Federation (NBF) has firmly rejected any attempt to introduce transgender boxing into the country’s sporting landscape. This declaration was made by the Interim President of the NBF, Azania Omo-Agege, on Wednesday in Abuja, amid reports that the President of the World Boxing Federation (WBF), Boris Vandervorst, is planning to visit Nigeria to advocate for the inclusion of transgender athletes in boxing competitions.
Concerns Over Transgender Boxing in Nigeria
Omo-Agege categorically dismissed the proposal, stating that it does not align with Nigeria’s values, military policies, and sporting principles.
“This move is not in the best interest of Nigerians,” he asserted, making it clear that the NBF would not endorse any initiative that promotes transgender participation in boxing.
According to Omo-Agege, Vandervorst has been one of the strongest global advocates for transgender boxing, gaining prominence after allegedly facilitating the participation of Algerian transgender boxer Imane Khalif in the Paris Olympics.
Military Influence and Presidential Directive Against Transgender Participation
One of the core reasons for NBF’s rejection of transgender boxing is the significant military representation in Nigerian boxing.
“You know that the majority of the boxers that represent Nigeria are from the military circle,” Omo-Agege explained.
He also referenced President Bola Tinubu’s recent directive banning transgender individuals from serving in the Nigerian military, arguing that allowing transgender athletes in boxing would contradict government policy and create conflicts among military personnel representing Nigeria in sports.
“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 added.
Criticism of the Nigeria Olympic Committee and Previous Controversies
Omo-Agege also took a swipe at individuals within the Nigerian Olympic Committee (NOC) whom he accused of pushing personal interests over national interests by entertaining Vandervorst’s visit.
He expressed displeasure over previous doping scandals that saw Nigerian boxers banned, questioning why the same individuals responsible for those setbacks still hold influence within Nigerian boxing administration.
“Boxing as a sport would collapse in Nigeria if the transgender agenda is allowed to succeed,” he warned.
Call for Government and Sporting Authorities to Act
Omo-Agege urged Nigerian sports authorities to take a strong stance against transgender boxing, aligning their position with President Tinubu’s policies and ensuring that boxing remains in line with Nigeria’s cultural and ethical values.
He further commended the International Boxing Association (IBA) President, Umar Kremlev, for his consistent support of Nigerian boxers. Notably, he highlighted the donation of 500 boxing gloves as an example of Kremlev’s commitment to the growth of boxing in Nigeria.
Additionally, he praised Eyassu Wossen, President of the Africa Boxing Confederation (ABC), for his contributions to the development of boxing in Africa.
Conclusion: No Place for Transgender Boxing in Nigeria
With the NBF’s firm stance against transgender boxing, the possibility of Vandervorst’s advocacy gaining traction in Nigeria appears highly unlikely.
The federation, backed by military influence and government policies, has made it clear that transgender inclusion in Nigerian boxing will not be tolerated. As the debate over gender inclusivity in global sports intensifies, Nigeria’s boxing authorities are sending a strong message that they will not compromise on their position.
