By Precious Owolabi, Ado-Ekiti

Ekiti State government has promised to secure gold medals at the upcoming National Sports Festival in Ogun State, with its boxers showing strong potential following impressive performances at the recent selection trials.

The Senior Special Assistant to the Ekiti State Governor on Traffic Management, Hon. Israel Adesokan, expressed confidence in the bright future of boxing in the state.

The Ekiti State Boxing Association recently held its selection trials in preparation for the festival, featuring intense and exciting bouts across various weight categories. Several promising talents emerged victorious, signaling a strong showing for the state at the national level.

Among the standout performances, Oluwakemi David triumphed over Olaleye Sakiru in the 57kg category, Omotola Wole defeated Bamidele Qudus in the 70kg category, and Alade Tobi outclassed Agboola Tomisin in the female division. The event also saw Esan Michael deliver a knockout victory against Ogunbiyi Solomon, while Agboola Tope Victor outboxed Bamidele Qudus.

Hon. Adesokan, who also serves as the Chairman of the Ekiti Boxing Association, praised the athletes for their dedication and impressive performances. He reaffirmed the association’s commitment to nurturing a formidable team capable of making the state proud at the National Sports Festival.

Expressing his appreciation, Adesokan commended Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for his unwavering support for sports development in Ekiti. He also acknowledged the contributions of Dr. Mrs. Olusola Osetoba, Technical Advisor to the Governor on Sports Development, for her invaluable guidance in the boxing program.

According to a statement by the association’s Media Officer, Bernard Fagbemiro, the next round of trials is set to take place in the coming weeks. Following the trials, selected boxers will enter a closed camping program to refine their skills and foster teamwork ahead of the national competition.

With two more trial opportunities ahead, Ekiti boxers remain focused and determined to secure their spots on the state’s team. Motivated by Adesokan’s promise of gold, they are ready to give their all and bring glory to Ekiti at the National Sports Festival.