A respected Nigerian female boxer and multi-medal champion Kehinde Joy Obareh has called on the Federal Government, state and local governments, as well as private sector stakeholders, to invest more in girl-child education and women’s health as part of efforts to empower future generations.
Speaking at the maiden Kehinde Obareh Female Boxing Show held at the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, Obareh urged influential women in government and the private sector to collaborate in creating better opportunities for young girls.
“The government, especially highly placed women in government and the private sector, can join hands in uplifting the girl child,” she said.
The former world No. 8 boxer reaffirmed her commitment to the development of female boxing, saying destiny had connected her with the sport and pledging to play a leading role in nurturing the next generation of champions in Nigeria and beyond.
The inaugural tournament provided another platform for discovering and developing home-based female boxing talents, with Obareh promising to support the dreams of the 24 participating boxers.
She also charged the young athletes to remain focused, resilient and committed to both their boxing careers and education, stressing that strength, courage, faith and dedication are essential ingredients for success.
Widely regarded as one of Africa’s finest boxers in the 60kg division, Obareh made history as the first Nigerian female boxer to win gold medals at the All Africa Games and the African Female Boxing Championship in Cameroon.
Beyond the ring, the kick-boxing star encouraged Nigerian women to channel their talents, energy and resources toward promoting peace and national development.
The championship produced several outstanding performances, with Gafar Fathia, Adepoju Roqueebat, Adeniji Aliyah, Sodipe Damilola, Ismail Abibat, Sadiku Tomiwa, Obiora Ada, Akanni Anuoluwa, Agboola Oyindamola, Adeyinka Abigail and Kareem Sukura claiming gold medals.
Silver medals went to Lasisi Nurat, Adeshina Aishat, Solanke Ramot, Ejeh Precilia, Kazeem Fathia, Jinadu Hikmot, Oluwafemi Oluwanifemi, Oyeleye Taiwo, Adepoju Taofikat, Adebisi Adenike and Olalekan Opeyemi, while Adegboyega Princess and Ibrahim Zainab received exhibition prizes.
The successful debut of the Kehinde Obareh Female Boxing Show is expected to further strengthen the growth of women’s boxing in Nigeria while creating pathways for emerging talents to excel on the continental and global stage.
