A UK-based Boxing-for-Development organisation, Empire Fighting Chance, has partnered with the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Ogun Chapter, and Peace Initiative Network (PIN) to promote peace, youth development and sports journalism.
The partnership was announced on Monday during a press conference in Abeokuta, Ogun State capital.
The Executive Director of Empire Fighting Chance, Martin Bisp, said the partnership aims to promote the use of boxing as a catalyst for peacebuilding, youth development, and social change.
Bisp said boxing has the power to transform lives beyond competition, adding that the organisation uses non-contact boxing to engage vulnerable youths affected by violence, gang activity, and crime.
He said the programme builds confidence, discipline and a sense of belonging, while creating pathways to education and employment.
The Fight For Peace official explained that boxing gyms provide a welcoming environment that breaks down social barriers, giving young people a sense of belonging while exposing them to life-changing opportunities.
He noted that the initiative, which started in Bristol, England, has expanded, with more than 150 boxing clubs trained in the United Kingdom, before expanding to Canada and now Nigeria.
“Our greatest achievement is that these organisations no longer depend on us.
“Even if Fight for Peace ceased to exist tomorrow, those communities would continue saving lives. That is the legacy we want to leave behind,” he said.
He disclosed that the organisation brought seven suitcases of boxing equipment donated by former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua,
He said that the items, which would be donated to the boxing community, would support grassroots boxing development in Ogun state.
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Also speaking, the Head of Community Development at Matchroom Boxing, Alex, described the visit as an honour, saying the organisation is committed to using sports to unite communities and create lasting social impact.
“Our responsibility is not only to organise world-class boxing events but also to connect those events with communities and leave a lasting legacy through sport,” he said.
Alex praised Anthony Joshua for transforming boxing globally and serving as a positive role model for young people.
“Anthony Joshua is someone whose values and character represent everything we want young people to aspire to. We are proud of everything he has achieved both inside and outside the ring,” he said.
According to him, returning to Ogun state, where Joshua’s family has its roots, made the visit particularly significant.
Alex said the donated equipment—including boxing gloves, punch pads, gum shields and other training materials—would enable the programme begin immediately after the training sessions.
Promoting Peace through Partnership
Peace Initiative Network (PIN) facilitator, Mr. Femi Sodipo expressed optimism that the collaboration with Empire Fighting Chance and PIN in the cities would promote peace through sports, youth engagement, and international cooperation.
Sodipo described the visit by delegates from the United States and the United Kingdom to Abeokuta as a major milestone in their efforts to translate their commitment into lasting community impact.
He noted that Abeokuta is also hosting Nigeria’s first non-contact boxing programme, aimed at using sport as a tool for peace and social development.
He disclosed that PIN has been appointed to coordinate the inaugural SWAN National Peace Cup and would continue to work with stakeholders to promote peace through sports and community engagement.
According to him, the peace initiative is designed as a multi-stakeholder effort, bringing together government institutions, civil society organisations, journalists, sports associations, and international partners to build safer and more inclusive communities.
Responsible Sports Journalism
Earlier, the Ogun SWAN Chairman, Comrade Michael-Azeez Ogunsiji reaffirmed the commitment of the association to promoting peace through responsible sports journalism.
Ogunsiji noted that sports journalists have a responsibility to report accurately, objectively, and responsibly to prevent misinformation that could fuel conflict.
The SWAN chairman called for stronger partnerships with international organisations, including Empire Fighting Chance, to improve the capacity of Nigerian sports journalists through exchange programmes and professional training.
According to him, greater exposure to global best practices will enable sports reporters develop specialised knowledge in areas such as boxing, football, golf, and others.
This, according to him, will ultimately raise the standard of sports journalism in Nigeria.
