Jamiu Adeniji was named the outstanding boxer of the Lagos Boxing Hall of Fame Ibile Divisional Championships after an impressive display at the Ikorodu Town Hall over the weekend.
The competition, organised in collaboration with the Lagos Amateur Boxing Association, featured 10 bouts and formed part of the long-running grassroots amateur boxing programme established by the Lagos Boxing Hall of Fame.
The LBHF initiative, which began in July 2009 with the support and vision of former Minister of Finance Wale Edun, has continued to provide a platform for young boxers across Lagos to develop their skills.
Adeniji, representing Agboyi Ketu LCDA, defeated Wahab Adiat of Ikorodu West LCDA in the men’s 50kg category.
The contest was one of the day’s standout bouts, with Adeniji controlling the fight from the opening bell.
His accurate jabs and well-timed uppercuts gave him a clear advantage and earned him a 5–0 unanimous decision from the judges. His dominant performance subsequently saw him receive the Boxer of the Tournament award.
The young boxer said the recognition had strengthened his desire to progress in the sport and earn an opportunity to represent Nigeria internationally.
“I am so excited to be named the best boxer. I know I can do more, and I hope with this kind of performance I can work my way into the national team and represent Nigeria in international tournaments. I must also commend the organisers, and I hope to continue my good form at the end-of-year tournament,” he said.
LBHF Director David Mohammed also commended the support from fans in Ikorodu, saying the turnout reflected the increasing appeal of the Ibile Championships.
“We are happy that the Ibile format is pulling crowds and attracting interest across the five divisional areas of Lagos. We expect the grand finale later in the year to be even more competitive and glamorous. We have seen quality performances, and we believe more of these boxers will fight their way into the national teams in the near future.”
The one-day event brought together boxers from Ikorodu Local Council, Ikorodu North LCDA, Ikorodu West LCDA, Igbogbo/Bayeku LCDA, Ijede LCDA, Ketu Agboyi, Ikosi Isheri and Imota LCDA. Two of the bouts ended in draws.
In the women’s category, Aishat Yisa of Ikorodu North LCDA defeated fellow council representative Abisola Agbolade 4–1 in the 50kg class, while Oyindamola Kuseju of Ikorodu LGA secured a 4–1 victory over Basirat Kelani of Ijede LCDA in the 54kg category.
Other winners included Kolade Ojo of Ikorodu North LCDA, who defeated Akinola Akingbade of Agboyi Ketu 5–0 in the 55kg category.
Shazilly Hamzat of Ikorodu West LCDA edged Waris Sanusi of Ikosi Isheri LCDA 3–2 in the 60kg class, while Kingsley Gabriel of Ikorodu North LCDA defeated Folagbade Ademola of Ikosi Isheri LCDA 3–2 in the 65kg category.
