Nigeria Finalises Boxing Squad for 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow

Nigeria’s National Boxing Team has officially stepped up preparations for the 2026 Commonwealth Games following the conclusion of a highly competitive selection trial held at the National Stadium in Lagos.

The Nigeria Boxing Federation confirmed the final list of 10 athletes who will represent the country in Glasgow after a rigorous series of bouts involving 128 fighters. After several days of intense competition, only ten boxers emerged victorious and secured automatic qualification to the national team.

The Commonwealth Games, scheduled to take place from July 24 to August 1, 2026, in Glasgow, will feature boxing among 14 sporting events, alongside athletics, swimming, cycling, gymnastics, netball, bowls, and basketball. Organisers expect strong global attention across all disciplines.

One of the standout performers during the trials was Patricia Mbata, the 2023 African Games gold medallist. Competing in the women’s +70kg category, she delivered a commanding performance, defeating national champion Blessing Orakwe in a unanimous 5–0 decision. Mbata is expected to play a leading role in the squad heading to Glasgow.

Other female qualifiers include Happiness Udoette (51kg), Kadijat Ajibola (57kg), Damilola Sodipe (65kg), and Celestine Edoka (70kg), all of whom recorded impressive victories in their respective divisions.

In the men’s category, Kenneth Anigboro secured his place in the 90kg division after a closely contested bout, while Golden Baoko Joseph Daniel advanced in the 80kg class following a walkover win.

Nigeria Boxing Federation officials praised the athletes for their discipline and competitive spirit, noting that additional standout performers from the trials may still be invited into the training camp as sparring partners ahead of the Games.