NAIROBI, KENYA — Behind Team Nigeria’s outstanding resurgence on the African Elite Men’s and Women’s Boxing Championships 2026 in Nairobi, Kenya, lies an inspiring story of willpower, psychological restoration and the tireless efforts of the teaching crew.
One of the important thing figures behind the turnaround is Mary Obo Ekpo, Cross River State head coach and one in all three coaches accompanying Nigeria’s boxing contingent to the championship.
Speaking solely to Sports247, Ekpo revealed how Sunday’s disappointing outcomes grew to become a turning level for the Nigerian boxers, who responded with renewed confidence and willpower.
“Sunday was not a day I would want to talk about,” she admitted, reflecting on the painful defeats that threatened Nigeria’s championship ambitions.
However, fairly than permitting the setbacks to destroy the crew’s confidence, Ekpo defined that the teaching crew instantly started motivating the athletes.
“We had to talk to them and motivate them. That was not what we planned for, but it brought out the best in our boxers. From Monday and now Tuesday, everybody can see the results,” she defined.
The turnaround has seen Nigeria produce 5 finalists, together with Ridwan Raheem, Ajishola Khadijat, Precious Anine, Blessing Orakwe and Patricia Mbata.
Ekpo, who’s commonly seen supporting Nigerian fighters at ringside, insisted that the crew arrived in Kenya adequately ready, though sudden challenges affected some early performances.
She reserved particular appreciation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, acknowledging his administration’s assist for Nigerian sports activities.
She additionally counseled National Sports Commission Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director-General Hon. Bukola Olopade for his or her contributions to sports activities growth.
The skilled coach additional applauded Nigeria Boxing Federation President Adebayo Olawale Edun and Vice President Omonlei Yakubu Imadu for supporting the crew’s participation in Nairobi.
According to Ekpo, Nigerian boxers want extra worldwide competitions to sharpen their expertise and turn into stronger contenders.
But her strongest message was reserved for these questioning whether or not Nigeria might return residence with honours.
“One thing I can assure them is that we are coming back with medals. Not one, not two, not three, but medals!” she declared.
For Ekpo, the championship has demonstrated that setbacks can turn into stepping stones to success when athletes obtain the precise motivation, technical steering and institutional assist.
And with 5 finalists carrying Nigeria’s hopes, the decided coach believes the very best is but to return.
