Amateur Boxing Is Growing In Nigeria

Godwin Okoji is the Head Coach of the Paramount Boxing Club, Lagos. In this interview with Boxing In Focus, the boxing trainer spoke on the state of amateur boxing in the country and the chances of Nigerian boxers at the London 2012 Olympic Games.

What is the contribution of your club to the development of boxing in Lagos State?

Paramount Boxing Club has contributed tremendously to the development of boxing in Lagos State. Our boxers have won several medals from competitions and about five of them are champions in different weight categories while representing the state. Aside from this, they have been a source of inspiration to upcoming boxers in the state by arousing their interests in the sport. These young boxers also see them as role models and aspire to be like them because they can see them prospering in their careers.

What is your take about the state of amateur boxing in Lagos State?

It is obvious that amateur boxing is developing rapidly in the state if we consider the performances of Lagos State boxers when they compete at tourneys outside the state. For instance, Lagos State boxers gave a good account of themselves by making a clean sweep of the medals at the last edition of the National Sports Festival in Port Harcourt. This is a proof that the sport has regained its fading glory in the state. The Saturday Monthly Boxing Show has also played a big part in developing amateur boxing in the state. Amateur boxers now have the assurance of participating in at least one bout every month. The same applies to the fans that now have the opportunity to watch boxing bouts from time to time.

How can Lagos State improve on its performance at the Garden City Games?

I want to appeal to the Lagos State Government not to rest on its oars and continue to fund amateur boxing as it has been doing. It is obvious that the government is embarking on a good project by spending on boxing when we consider the numerous laurels that these boxers have won for the state. What I will suggest is for the state to always organise long-term training programmes for the boxers whenever they want to go for national or international championships. As I said earlier, the state government only needs to improve on its efforts.

What are the chances of Nigerian boxers at the London Olympics?

It is very clear for all to see that Nigerian boxers have developed tactically. Some Nigerian coaches have been exposed to the modern system of training as well. That is why I expect them to come home with medals from the London Olympics. For instance, our boxers were a bit inferior to British boxers at the first edition of the Lagos versus Repton Boys Club but they gave a good account of themselves at the last edition of the tourney last year. These are some of the boxers that will represent Nigeria at the Olympics.

What is your advice to upcoming boxers?

My advice to them is to avoid over-enjoyment. This can hinder them from achieving their goals. They must not over-indulge with the opposite sex if they want to become good boxers. They will always mix with the opposite sex as sports men and women but I advice them not to lose focus if they want to achieve their goals.