Akolade Emerges Best Boxer at LBHF 150th Divisional Championships

Ibrahim Akolade on Sunday, emerged as the best boxer at the 150th Lagos Central Division of the Lagos Boxing Hall of Fame (LBHF) Divisional Championships.
The one-day tournament which held at the Mobolaji Johnson Sports Centre, Rowe Park, Yaba, was organised by LBHF in collaboration with the Lagos State Boxing Association (LABA).
Akolade became the ‘cynosure of all eyes’ after an impressive performance at the championship.
The LBHF was founded in 2010 by Wale Edun, former Minister of Finance and has grown into a non-profit initiative that provides a platform for developing amateur boxing talents in Lagos.
The monthly tournament covers the five divisions of Lagos, comprising Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island and Epe.
The Lagos Central edition attracted boxers from 10 local councils and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).
Edun and the LBHF Director, David Mohammed, were also in attendance.
The championship, backed by LABA, featured several weight classes, ranging from flyweight to heavyweight.
The series has become Nigeria’s longest-running amateur boxing development programme, holding consistently, every month.
The 150th edition featured 10 exciting bouts involving male and female boxers.
Two exhibition bouts involving secondary school students were also held.
To win the best boxer award, Mainland’s Akolade defeated Isah Jimoh of Lagos West LCDA 4-1.
Akolade displayed good footwork, sharp jabs and a decisive uppercut during the bout.
He described the victory as a proud reward for his hard work and commitment.
“I feel proud because I worked hard and deserved it. I thank God Almighty, LBHF, my supporters and coaches.
“This award means so much to me because I have been looking for opportunities to showcase my talent.
“I see myself winning the WBC title in the future. I want people to remember my name Ibrahim Akolade, once boxed and was a great boxer,” he said.
Edun commended the boxers and described the divisional championship as a pathway to the Governor’s Belt.
He said champions from the five divisions would meet at the end-of-year contest, to determine the overall IBILE Champion.
“Champions from Ikorodu, Badagry, Ikeja, Lagos Island and Epe, will box on Dec. 26, for the overall IBILE Champion title.
“The champion of champions will receive the Governor’s Belt,” he said
Also speaking, the LBHF director, Mohammed said the tournament had continued to gain momentum, adding that the excitement around the competition was increasing.
“The excitement is increasing and everything is going according to plan.
“The IBILE Championships inject more competition and passion. Ultimately, the Governor’s Belt ensures only the best of the best emerge as Lagos champions,” he said.