Team Nigeria boxing coach, Mary Ekpo has expressed confidence in the country’s prospects for multiple gold medals at the African Elite Men’s and Women’s Boxing Championships in Nairobi, Kenya, after a strong recovery that saw five Nigerian boxers advance to the finals.

Nigeria’s campaign began poorly, with the team suffering five defeats in the early stages of the competition. The coaching staff subsequently stepped in to rebuild the fighters’ confidence and prepare them for the remaining bouts. Ekpo, one of three coaches with the Nigerian contingent, said the response to those early setbacks had been encouraging and that the team was now better positioned as the championships enter their decisive phase.

“Sunday was not a day I would want to talk about,” Ekpo said, reflecting on the difficult start. “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.”

The improved performances have secured places in the finals for Ridwan Raheem, Ajishola Khadijat, Precious Anine, Blessing Orakwe and Patricia Mbata, giving Nigeria five opportunities to fight for gold. With the finalists set to contest the top honours, Ekpo is hopeful that the turnaround will translate into a strong medal haul for the country.

She also stressed the importance of greater international exposure for Nigerian boxers, noting that regular participation in major competitions would help them develop their skills, gain experience and compete more effectively against top-level opponents.

Nigeria will now aim to convert its five final appearances into gold medals as the championships continue in Nairobi. The competition, which began on October 15, is scheduled to conclude on October 28.