Tinubu’s minister Wale Edun emerges president of Nigerian Boxing Federation

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Wale Edun, has emerged as the new president of the Nigerian Boxing Federation.

The minister, who is a boxing enthusiast, was voted unopposed, recording all twelve (12) votes at the elections held at the Package B indoor sports hall of the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, on Saturday.

In his post-election remarks, the minister pledged to implement structural changes and developmental reforms aimed at elevating boxing across all levels in the country.

“Our goal is to restore Nigerian boxing to its rightful place on the global stage through transparency, inclusion, and strong grassroots development,” Edun said.

While Edun’s emergence was uncontested, the Vice Presidential position witnessed a competitive race, with Hon. Omonlei Imadu, the South-West representative, defeating his North-Central counterpart, Mighty Mike, by eight votes to four.

Imadu, known for his consistent grassroots boxing initiatives, described Edun’s election as a “new dawn” for the sport.

“The Honorable Minister’s passion for boxing is undeniable. His track record in supporting young boxers and creating opportunities through grassroots initiatives speaks volumes,” Imadu said.

“We will work hand in hand with him to actualize his vision for Nigerian boxing.”

The new NBF Vice President also commended the National Sports Commission (NSC), led by Mallam Shehu Dikko as Chairman and Hon. Bukola Olopade as Director General, for conducting an election marked by fairness, transparency, and accountability.

Beyond his role in government, Edun has long demonstrated a commitment to sports and youth development. He is the Chairman of the Lagos Boxing Hall of Fame (LBHF), a non-profit organization he founded in 2010 to nurture amateur boxing talent across Nigeria.

The organization hosts monthly tournaments, including the Governor’s Belt Championship, and facilitates international competitions that have produced some of Nigeria’s top boxing prospects.

He also serves as a board member and Nigerian chair of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation and chairs Livewell Initiative, a health-based NGO.