Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called on the Federal and State Governments, corporate organisations, and private individuals to invest in harnessing the potential of Nigerian youths through sports and structured entertainment platforms.
Obi made the appeal on Sunday via a post on his official X account while reacting to the May 2, 2026 “Chaos in the Ring 4” celebrity boxing event held in Lagos, where comedian Carter Efe defeated singer Portable in a widely followed bout.
Commending both participants, the former Anambra State governor praised their sportsmanship and the growing popularity of celebrity boxing among young Nigerians.
“I followed the recent celebrity boxing match where Carter Efe emerged victorious over the reigning champion, Portable. I congratulate the winner on his determination and commend both participants for embracing the spirit of sportsmanship,” Obi stated.
He noted that such competitions, though initially seen as light entertainment, are increasingly becoming influential platforms that attract the attention of young people across the country.
According to him, the event reflects the creativity, resilience, and energy of Nigerian youths, and should be properly structured to serve a greater national purpose.
“Such healthy competition, grounded in respect and fairness, is a culture we must consciously imbibe as a nation, especially in a time when unity and mutual respect are greatly needed,” he added.
Obi further emphasized that with adequate investment, regulation, and institutional backing, celebrity boxing and similar youth-driven initiatives could be transformed into a viable industry capable of talent discovery, job creation, and discipline building.
He also highlighted the potential for such platforms to produce world-class athletes who could elevate Nigeria’s global sporting profile.
“It is therefore important that we look more deeply into such events. With deliberate investment, proper regulation, and institutional backing, this emerging space can be transformed into a viable industry – one that creates employment, instills discipline, and channels youthful energy into productive ventures,” he said.
Obi concluded that supporting such initiatives would not only provide entertainment but also contribute to national development, reiterating his belief that “a new Nigeria is possible.”