President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mourned the passing of Nigerian boxing icon and Olympic athlete, Obisia Nwankpa, who died on Monday at the age of 75. The president praised Nwankpa’s outstanding contributions to Nigerian sports, both in and outside the boxing ring.
In a statement issued by presidential spokesperson Mr. Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu expressed deep sympathy to Nwankpa’s family, friends, and the entire Nigerian sporting community. He described the late boxer as a national hero whose legacy will remain etched in the hearts of Nigerians.
“Obisia Nwankpa was more than just a boxer. He was a source of pride for our nation, a role model for young athletes, and a coach who gave his all to raise new champions,” President Tinubu said. “Nigeria’s sporting community and fans will always remember him for the honour he brought to our country and the thrilling moments he gave us in the ring.”
Born in Nigeria in 1949, Obisia Nwankpa rose to fame in the 1970s as one of the country’s finest boxers. He represented Nigeria at the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, Germany, competing in the light-welterweight division. His skill and determination earned him admiration at home and abroad.
Following the Olympics, Nwankpa went on to win several major titles. He clinched a gold medal at the 1973 All-Africa Games held in Lagos and repeated that feat at the 1974 British Commonwealth Games in Christchurch, New Zealand, again in the welterweight division.
He held several prestigious boxing titles during his career, including Nigerian Lightweight Champion, African Boxing Union (ABU) Light-Welterweight Champion, and Commonwealth Lightweight Champion.
After hanging up his gloves, Nwankpa turned his attention to coaching and mentoring young Nigerian boxers. He served as a national boxing coach and played a key role in developing future talents. Under his leadership, Nigeria’s boxing team participated in major international competitions, including the Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008 Olympic Games.
President Tinubu acknowledged this selfless service in his tribute, saying, “The nation owes him a debt of gratitude for nurturing a new generation of boxers. His contribution to sports development in Nigeria cannot be overstated.”
Nwankpa was widely respected not only for his accomplishments in the ring but also for his humility and dedication to sports. He spent his post-fighting years mentoring young athletes, working tirelessly to improve Nigeria’s standing in global boxing.
His death is being felt across the Nigerian sports world, with many athletes and officials expressing sadness and reflecting on his lasting impact.
“He was a true legend. His life was dedicated to building the sport in Nigeria. We will miss his wisdom and his fighting spirit,” said one former national boxer who trained under him.
As Nigeria mourns one of its greatest sports icons, President Tinubu offered prayers for the peaceful repose of his soul and comfort for all who mourn his loss.
“May God grant his soul eternal rest and give his family and the entire sports community the strength to bear this loss,” the president concluded.
Obisia Nwankpa’s life and career serve as a reminder of how dedication, patriotism, and talent can bring pride to a nation. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched—both in the ring and beyond.
