Empire Fighting Chance Partners Ogun SWAN, PIN to Expand Boxing for Peace, Youth Development

 



Aina Obasanjo 

An international boxing-for-development organization, Bristol Boxing foundation has announced its intention to partner Ogun State chapter of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria and Peace Initiative Network to expand the use of boxing as a tool for social change.


The Executive Director for Global Partnerships and Impact at Empire Fighting Chance, Mr Martin Bisp made this known during an interactive engagement with SWAN members Hela at the Secretariat of the Association, MKO Abiola Sports Arena Kuto Abeokuta.



Mr Bisp explained that the organization used boxing training, combined with psychology, to engage young people involved in gangs, violence, and mental health challenges, adding that the programme had helped participants to return to education, secure employment, and build positive futures.


According to him, boxing gyms provide a safe, welcoming environment where barriers are broken down and life-changing opportunities begin. 



Also speaking the PIN facilitator, Mr Femi Sodipo said Abeokuta is strengthening its position as a leading city for peacebuilding through international partnerships and sports development.



Mr 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 expressed optimism that the collaboration with Empire Fighting Chance and Peace Initiative Network in the Cities would promote peace through sports, youth engagement, and international cooperation. 


Mr Sodipo 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 added that the Peace Initiative Network has been appointed to coordinate the inaugural SWAN National Peace Tour 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.



Earlier, the SWAN chairman, Comrade Michael Azeez-Ogunsiji had reaffirmed the commitment of the association to promote peace through responsible sports journalism.


He 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 to develop specialised knowledge in areas such as boxing, football, golf, and other disciplines, ultimately raising the standard of sports journalism in Nigeria.

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