A UK-based boxing-for-development organisation, Empire Fighting Chance, has partnered with the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Ogun State chapter, and the Peace Initiative Network (PIN) to promote peace, youth development and sports journalism.
The partnership was unveiled on Monday during a press conference in Abeokuta.
Executive Director of Empire Fighting Chance, Martin Bisp, said the collaboration seeks to harness boxing as a tool for peacebuilding, youth development and positive social change.
Bisp explained that the organisation uses non-contact boxing to engage vulnerable young people affected by violence, gang activity and crime, stressing that the initiative goes beyond competition.
He said the programme helps participants build confidence, discipline and a sense of belonging while creating opportunities for education and employment.
According to him, boxing gyms provide an inclusive environment that breaks down social barriers and exposes young people to life-changing opportunities.
Bisp noted that the initiative, which began in Bristol, England, has expanded to more than 150 boxing clubs across the United Kingdom before extending to Canada and 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 to support grassroots boxing development in Ogun State.
Also speaking, Alex, Head of Community Development at Matchroom Boxing, described the visit as an honour, saying the organisation remains committed to using sport 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 his achievements in and outside the ring, describing him 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.
He added that returning to Ogun State, where Joshua’s family has its roots, made the visit particularly meaningful.
Alex said the donated items, including boxing gloves, punch pads, gum shields and other training equipment, would enable the programme to commence immediately after the training sessions.
Speaking at the event, Peace Initiative Network (PIN) facilitator, Femi Sodipo, said the partnership would strengthen peacebuilding, youth engagement and international cooperation.
He described the visit by delegates from the United Kingdom and the United States to Abeokuta as a significant milestone in efforts to translate shared commitments into lasting community impact.
Sodipo said Abeokuta was also hosting Nigeria’s first non-contact boxing programme, designed to use sport as a tool for peace and social development.
He further disclosed that PIN had been appointed to coordinate the inaugural SWAN National Peace Cup and would continue collaborating with stakeholders to promote peace through sports and community engagement.
According to him, the initiative brings together government institutions, civil society organisations, journalists, sports associations and international partners to build safer and more inclusive communities.
Earlier, Chairman of Ogun SWAN, Comrade Michael-Azeez Ogunsiji, reaffirmed the association’s commitment to promoting peace through responsible sports journalism.
Ogunsiji said sports journalists have a duty to report accurately, objectively and responsibly to prevent misinformation capable of fuelling conflict.
He called for stronger partnerships with international organisations, including Empire Fighting Chance, to enhance the capacity of Nigerian sports journalists through exchange programmes and professional training.
According to him, greater exposure to global best practices would equip sports journalists with specialised knowledge in boxing, football, golf and other sports, ultimately improving the standard of sports journalism in Nigeria.
