By Modupe Gbadeyanka

For the third consecutive year, Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC has once again thrown its full weight on the Lagos Polo Club to reaffirm its unwavering dedication to sports development in Nigeria.

The subsidiary of the Standard Bank Group believes that sponsoring the tournament highlights its commitment to fostering excellence in sports and promoting community engagement through one of Nigeria’s most cherished sporting traditions.

“At Stanbic IBTC, we recognise the unifying power of sports and its potential to drive community development. Our continued partnership with the Lagos Polo Club reflects our commitment to not only fostering athletic excellence but also supporting platforms that bring people together to celebrate culture, passion, and shared values,” the chief executive of Stanbic IBTC, Mr Wole Adeniyi, said.

The Executive Director for Corporate and Investment Banking at Stanbic IBTC Bank, Mr Eric Fajemisin, said, “This season is set to be an extraordinary highlight on the sporting calendar, attracting not only polo enthusiasts but also international participants and spectators.

“We anticipate thrilling matches that will showcase the incredible talent of the players as they compete in various tournaments. Additionally, attendees will enjoy a variety of engaging activities that illuminate the intricacies of the sport.”

Also, the president of the Lagos Polo Club, Mr Bode Makanjuola, said, “We are proud to have Stanbic IBTC Bank as a key partner of the Lagos Polo Club for the third consecutive year.

“Their continued support has elevated this season’s calendar, creating a platform for our players to showcase their talent. This partnership underscores our shared vision of promoting excellence, community development, and the growth of polo in Nigeria.”

The Lagos Polo Club, renowned for showcasing athleticism, precision, and teamwork both on and off the field, continues to attract players, enthusiasts, and spectators from across Nigeria and beyond.

As a leading financial services provider, Stanbic IBTC leverages this platform to strengthen its connection with customers, stakeholders, and the broader community.

This year’s polo season promises to be even more exciting, featuring high-profile tournaments, increased participation, and an elevated experience for attendees. Stanbic IBTC’s sustained support underscores its pivotal role in driving growth and development within Nigeria’s sports and entertainment sectors.

Beyond sports, Stanbic IBTC remains steadfast in its commitment to initiatives that enhance the socio-economic well-being of the communities it serves. Through efforts like this, the organisation aims to inspire excellence, strengthen social bonds, and foster sustainable development.

The 32nd edition of Africa’s premier boxing event, GOtv Boxing Night, is scheduled for December 26 at Tafawa Balewa Square in Lagos. Since its debut in 2014, GOtv Boxing Night has become a prime platform for Nigerian and African boxers to make a name for themselves. Organised by Flykite Productions, the event has wowed boxing fans across Africa with unforgettable national and international title bouts across weight categories. In no particular order, here is a list of the most cracking fights at the event:

1. Waidi ‘Skoro’ Usman vs. Edward ‘Shaka’ Kakembo: The headline bout of the 5th edition, held in December 2015, saw Skoro, a big favourite of the Lagos boxing public, attempt to win the vacant African Boxing Union (ABU) featherweight title against his Ugandan opponent. But Kakembo, who appeared on the ring wearing big and long chains around his neck, had too much in the tank for Skoro. His speed of thought and hands were too much for Skoro, and in no time, the crowd cheered him loudly. He won by a split decision.

2. Oto “Joe Boy” Joseph vs. Nurudeen “Prince” Fatai: Both were at their peak in 2016 when the bout was held. It was a grudge match, with Nurudeen seeking to avenge his previous defeat in a non-title bout. The chance to exact revenge was twice delayed because Nurudeen, the reigning national champion at the time, was injured.

The chance came on 1 May 2016 and headlined GOtv Boxing Night 7. Nurudeen’s title was on the line. The volume-punching Joe Boy met a tough Nurudeen in what has to be one of the most bruising bouts ever at GOtv Boxing Night.  Joe Boy won by unanimous decision after 12 gruelling rounds, winning the N1 million cash prize attached to the Mojisola Ogunsanya Memorial Trophy for the best boxer.

3. Taiwo “Gentle Boy” Olowu vs. Alidu Sulemana: The West African Boxing Union (WABU) title fight, which took place at GOtv Boxing Night 30, had everything: action, drama, controversy and sub-regional rivalry. The last attribute was on account of the Ghana-Nigeria rivalry which, by default, is as fierce as anything. Sulemana, a Ghanaian, battled Olowu with guile and determination for the WABU Super Welterweight title in a very close contest. Olowu ultimately won via a split decision, though some fans felt the Ghanaian fighter deserved the victory.

4. Rilwan Babatunde vs. Edem “Lion Heart” Biki:  A very spicy bout despite it being a non-title contest. There was so much aggression and determination on display. Biki was knocked down in the third round and was thought incapable of offering resistance. But he rebounded to do what he was deemed incapable of, delivering a fierce resistance and giving Babatunde a cut above his right eye. Babatunde was not slowed down by the injury, as he returned after being treated to deliver a mean combination, with the last punch an uppercut, to knock Biki unconscious. The medical team’s quick response prevented any serious consequences, and Biki was rushed to a nearby hospital.

5. Bolatito “Black Tito” Oluwole vs. Celina “Pretty Assassin” Agu: Arranging fights for female boxers can be challenging, but GOtv Boxing Night finally brought these two undefeated fighters together for a national cruiserweight title clash at its 28th edition. Despite suffering a right-hand injury in the fourth round, Black Tito pushed through all eight rounds to secure a unanimous decision victory over Pretty Assassin. Her performance earned her the Best Boxer award, making her the first female to win the Mojisola Ogunsanya Memorial Trophy, breaking a nine-year streak of male recipients.

6. Taiwo “Esepor” Agbaje Vs Richard Taruc Pumicpic: The headliner at GOtv Boxing Night 27, held in December 2022. Then the reigning West African Boxing Union featherweight champion, Esepor finally had the chance to fulfil his dream of becoming a world champion. In his path was a Philipino determined to end his unbeaten run. Deep into the seventh round of the explosive encounter, Esepor earned a technical knockout victory, sending the Lagos fans into wild jubilation. His fine display earned him his fourth Mojisola Ogunsanya Memorial Trophy for the best boxer, along with the cash prize of N1.5m.

7. Stanley “Edo Boy” Eribo Vs Sunday “Capo” Olalekan:  A masterclass in controlled demolition. This has remained a classic. It was at GOtv Boxing Night V and the first time the cash prize of N 1.5m was attached to the Mojisole Ogunsanya Memorial Trophy.  Eribo and Olalekan clashed in a high-stakes battle for the national light welterweight title, with both fighters determined to emerge victorious. Eribo was methodical and was like a coiled spring, leaping to action only when required. Capo, on the other hand, was an all-out attack machine. Eribo’s control made it easy for him to pick his opponent off. Capo huffed and puffed, but his punches were largely harmless, unlike Eribo’s which did plenty of damage and delivered the title. Eribo also won the N1.5m cash prize for the best boxer..

8. Fijabi “Fijaborn” Fijabi Vs Sadiq “Police Machine ” Ahmed: This had a David-Goliath vibe.  Fijaborn, who turned professional a year earlier, was pitched against the reigning national welterweight champion, Police Machine. Though short on experience, Fijaborn had the ability and, importantly, the stamina to execute the assignment. He dismissively defeated Police Machine, knocking him out in the fifth round and leaving him so punch-drunk that he staggered like a drunk walking a straight line. The cheers were deafening as he announced himself as a big-timer.

9 Taiwo “Gentle Boy” Olowu vs. Isaac “I-Star” Chukwudi: A grudge match with the added spice of a national welterweight title fight. Both had clashed in a non-title bout that ended in a draw. Gentle Boy felt he won. I-Star was seen celebrating after the result was announced, which further infuriated Gentle Boy. As the national welterweight champion, Olowu decided to put his belt on the line for a rematch at GOtv Boxing Night 27. Before the fight, I-Star boasted that he would end Gentle Boy’s reign with a knockout.  The fight lived up to its billing as both boxers traded force punches. In the eighth round, I-Star’s stamina began to wane. Olowu pounced with a power left hook to the jaw, sending I-Star sprawling like a battlefield casualty. That was the boast buster and the end of the contest won by knockout

10. Raphael ‘Iron King’ Kwabena Vs Olaide ‘Fijaborn’ Fijabi:  This Nigeria vs. Ghana showdown was a fierce battle of two undefeated champions. Fijabi, the reigning national champion, sought to bolster his international reputation, while Kwabena had won eight of his nine fights by knockout. With N1.5 million at stake for the best boxer of the 9th GOtv Boxing Night, anticipation was high. Both fighters were evenly matched, and the bout went the distance. Fijabi narrowly claimed victory through a split decision, ending Iron King’s unbeaten streak. Furious at the loss, Kwabena demanded an immediate rematch, which Fijabi accepted. However, the scheduled rematch for the 10th edition was postponed due to an injury Fijabi sustained.

With 31 successful editions, GOtv Boxing Night has delivered thrilling local and international contests over the past decade, turning local boxers into millionaires and providing a platform for amateur boxers to turn professional. It has been a transformative ten years for GOtv in the Nigerian and African boxing scene, creating memorable moments that will endure for both fans and fighters for years to come.

Flykite Productions, organizers of the GOtv Boxing Night, have announced that the ace R&B group, Style Plus, will perform live at the 32nd edition of the event, scheduled for December 26 at the Tafawa Balewa Square in Lagos.

The night will also feature a blend of thrilling boxing action and premium entertainment, with live performances by Afrobeats stars Mayorkun and YKB, as well as a comedy session by the popular MC Lively.

Speaking about the entertainment lineup, Bamidele Johnson, Chief Executive Officer of Flykite Productions, said the inclusion of Style Plus is aimed at elevating the experience for fans. “GOtv Boxing Night is a unique mix of sport and entertainment. Adding Style Plus to the lineup ensures that attendees enjoy an unforgettable evening of music, laughter, and boxing excitement,” he said.

Style Plus, best known for their 2006 hit track “Olufunmi”, remains one of Nigeria’s most beloved musical groups, with their timeless songs continuing to resonate with audiences across generations.

GOtv Boxing Night 32 is organised by Flykite Productions and proudly sponsored by GOtv. The event will be broadcast live on SuperSport channels, reaching audiences in over 50 African countries.