The Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBofC) is currently waiting for a visa decision for Sikiru Shogbesan, following an official appeal to the South African embassy, PUNCH Sports Extra has learned.
Shogbesan’s initial visa application was declined because the scheduled date of his Africa Boxing Union title fight had already passed. However, organizers have now moved the fight from August 28 to September 12, giving fresh hope for his participation. In a recent letter to the South African High Commission, NBBofC General Secretary Remi Aboderin included proof of the event’s rescheduling.
“Our approach is to appeal the decision, not to challenge it aggressively,” Aboderin explained. “The visa refusal was based on the fight supposedly being over, but since the date has shifted to September 12, we are asking them to reconsider.”
Confirmation of the new fight date came in a letter from Thanya Boxing Promotion, dated August 30. The promotion clarified, “The change was done thoughtfully to ensure the competition achieves the highest standards.”
Known in boxing circles as ‘Omo Iya Eleja,’ Shogbesan was slated to face South African opponent Khaya Busagwe in a much-anticipated Africa Boxing Union Lightweight title bout. The 30-year-old, whose professional record stands at 21 wins, 3 losses, and 1 draw, is Nigeria’s pioneering boxer with a university degree in microbiology.
According to Aboderin, another Nigerian fighter on the same fight card successfully secured her visa just last week.
On Wednesday, South African authorities responded by requesting the NBBofC to “re-apply through VFS” and include the updated postponement letter, clarifying that the visa office had not been informed of the date change in time. They assured that Shogbesan’s application would now be treated as a priority.
NBBofC President Rafiu Ladipo expressed his faith in Shogbesan’s talent and commitment, stating, “With his outstanding track record, Shogbesan is one of Nigeria’s best. He has proved his mettle time and again, and this title opportunity is a big moment for our nation’s boxing scene.”
Ladipo also voiced optimism: “We believe the South African authorities, once they review our updated documents, will recognize this as an important sporting event and grant the necessary support.”
This latest visa appeal highlights Nigeria’s growing influence in international boxing, as more local talent compete in Africa-wide and global championships.
Shogbesan, who first caught attention through the GOtv Boxing NextGen Search, has become a strong presence in Nigerian boxing, balancing his scientific education with success in the ring.
