African Boxing Champs: Nigeria wins three gold, two silver medals

Nigeria emerged victorious from the African Elite Men’s and Women’s Boxing Championships held in Nairobi, Kenya, securing three gold medals and two silver medals. Female boxers led the charge, with Ajishola Khadijat, Precious Anine and captain Blessing Orakwe all taking home gold. Patricia Mbata and Ridwan Raheem finished with silver.

The five medals were earned by the 10-member team. Khadijat claimed Nigeria's first gold with a unanimous decision over Algeria's Malak Noir in the women's 51-54kg final. Anine followed suit, defeating another Algerian, Benane Djouher, in the women's 60-65kg final. Orakwe delivered the most dominant performance of the tournament, stopping Kenya's Akinyi Elizabeth in the first round of the women's 75-80kg final.

Captain Orakwe had earlier vowed to overcome any obstacle in her pursuit of the title. Despite missing out on gold in the women's 70-75kg final, Mbata lost to Egypt's Aboelfead Nabila by points. Raheem also lost by split decision in the men's 65kg final to Angola's Bernardo Massimino Sander. This win marked a significant turnaround for the team, which suffered early defeats in the competition.