Adeoye, Mistura shine at ‘Fight for Asiwaju 2027’ boxing tourney
Orile-Agege’s maiden “Fight for Asiwaju 2027 Boxing Championship” combined sporting action with a broader agenda of youth empowerment, civic engagement and community development at the weekend. Organised under the leadership
Orile-Agege's maiden "Fight for Asiwaju 2027 Boxing Championship" combined sporting action with a broader agenda of youth empowerment, civic engagement and community development at the weekend.
Organised under the leadership of Hon. Akinola Abiodun Idowu, Executive Chairman of Orile-Agege LCDA, the event transcended boxing, presenting a strategic platform aimed at creating opportunities for young people and steering them toward productive ventures.
The championship featured a series of competitive bouts. Adeniyi Adeoye defeated Mustapha Ismail by unanimous decision in the 75–80kg category, while Jatto Ibrahim edged Adebisi Razak via split decision in the 70–75kg bout. Alakwem Samuel Sunday secured a second-round stoppage victory over Ogundipe Ibrahim in the 65–70kg division.
Other winners included Adeniyi Adefemi (60–65kg), Olaniyi Ayomide (55–60kg), and Onifade Wariz, who claimed a 3–0 decision over Sokunbi Faruk in the 45–50kg category. In the female bout, Otenaike Mistura defeated Kelani Muibat in the 45–50kg division.
The event was organised by the Orile-Agege LCDA Sports Committee in collaboration with the Lagos State Boxing Association, with support from the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa.
Despite its politically suggestive title, Idowu clarified that the initiative is primarily focused on social impact. He described the championship as the starting point of a long-term plan to use sports — especially boxing — as a tool to combat crime, poverty, and social vices among youths.
"This is more than a competition; it is a movement," he said. "We are taking this initiative to the grassroots, identifying talents on the streets, and providing a pathway for young people to succeed and contribute meaningfully to society."
He added that the programme is designed to encourage youths to move beyond passive participation in governance by actively engaging in the democratic process, including obtaining their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).
Highlighting his personal commitment, Idowu revealed his background as a trained boxer and coach, noting that his passion for the sport stems from years of grassroots involvement.
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Chairman of the Orile-Agege Sports Committee, Dípò Liadi, described the championship as a success, citing the strong turnout, high energy, and stakeholder support as evidence of its growing relevance.
"Youth engagement is essential for any responsible government," Liadi said. "This initiative helps redirect energy into something positive, while also discovering and nurturing talent."
He disclosed plans to establish Orile-Agege as a boxing hub through structured leagues and expanded sporting activities, including indoor games such as chess and draughts, particularly during the rainy season. Future programmes will also cater to older residents, ensuring inclusivity across age groups.
A major component of the project is the acquisition of a standard boxing ring, to be installed in a public indoor facility and made accessible to coaches and gyms at no cost under the supervision of the sports committee.
