The Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBofC) is currently waiting for the outcome of an urgent visa appeal for boxer Sikiru Shogbesan, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.
Shogbesan was previously denied a travel visa by the South African embassy because his scheduled bout had already passed. However, the Africa Boxing Union title fight, originally set for August 28, has now been officially postponed to September 12. To address this, Remi Aboderin, General Secretary of the NBBofC, sent documentation to the South African High Commission confirming the change in event date.
“Our goal is to clarify the situation, not to contest the embassy’s decision,” Aboderin explained. “The initial visa refusal was due to the fight date having elapsed, but we have since informed the commission that it’s been rescheduled for September 12 instead of August 28.”
An official letter from Thanya Boxing Promotion, dated August 30, verifies the date change and reads: “This rescheduling was considered carefully to uphold the highest standards for the tournament.”
Known as ‘Omo Iya Eleja’ in the ring, Shogbesan is set to face South African rival Khaya Busagwe for the Africa Boxing Union Lightweight title. The 30-year-old sports a record of 21 victories, three defeats, and one draw. Notably, he is the first Nigerian boxer to hold a degree in microbiology.
Aboderin noted that another Nigerian boxer scheduled on the same fight card already secured her visa the week before.
Responding to the renewed application, South African officials requested on Wednesday that the NBBofC “submit a re-application to VFS and attach a postponement letter as the office was not aware nor informed in time,” adding that the request would be fast-tracked.
NBBofC president Rafiu Ladipo expressed faith in Shogbesan’s capabilities, stating, “Sikiru Shogbesan is among our finest boxers with a stellar professional record.”
“He has shown remarkable talent and discipline throughout his career, and this title bout is a pivotal moment for Nigerian boxing’s presence in Africa,” Ladipo continued.
“We trust that, upon reviewing the updated event documents, the South African authorities will recognize this as a legitimate sporting opportunity meriting their cooperation.”
This appeal highlights Nigeria’s growing reputation on the global boxing stage, with more fighters now competing in high-profile continental and world title matches.
Shogbesan, who was discovered via the GOtv Boxing NextGen Search talent initiative, has become a standout in Nigerian boxing—successfully blending his academic achievements in microbiology with his passion for the sport.
