A United Kingdom-based boxing-for-development organisation, Empire Fighting Chance, in collaboration with Peace Initiative Network (PIN), has announced plans to partner with the Ogun State Chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) to promote peacebuilding, youth empowerment, and violence prevention through boxing in Nigeria.

Speaking during a visit to the SWAN Secretariat in Abeokuta, Founder of Empire Fighting Chance, Mr. Martin Bisp, said the organisation chose to collaborate with SWAN due to its strong reputation and shared commitment to transforming the lives of young people.

According to him, the organisation leverages boxing not only as a sport but as a strategic platform to engage youths involved in gang activities, violence and mental health challenges.

“Our programme uses boxing, underpinned by psychology, to engage young people involved in gangs, violence, and those struggling with mental health. We help them stay in education, secure employment and move away from negative environments,” he said.

Bisp explained that boxing gyms create inclusive and supportive spaces that break down social barriers, foster a sense of belonging, and expose participants to life-changing opportunities. While only a small number of participants go on to become professional boxers, he noted that thousands benefit from the discipline, mentorship, and personal development embedded in the programme.

He further disclosed that the initiative, which began in Bristol, England, has expanded to about 150 organisations across the United Kingdom, with partner boxing clubs independently implementing the model in their communities.

“Our greatest achievement is sustainability. These organisations no longer depend on us. Even if we ceased operations today, communities would continue saving lives. That is the legacy we aim to build,” he added.

Bisp also revealed that the organisation is currently active in Canada and is looking to establish a similar sustainable model in Nigeria through its partnership with SWAN.

As part of the collaboration, the delegation donated seven suitcases of boxing equipment, provided by Nigerian-born former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua, to support the launch of the programme.

Also speaking, Head of Community Development at Matchroom Boxing, Alex, described the visit as a privilege, noting the organisation’s commitment to using sport as a unifying force for social impact.

“Our responsibility goes beyond organising world-class boxing events. We are committed to connecting those events to communities and leaving a lasting legacy through sport,” he said.

He commended Anthony Joshua for his global impact and positive influence on young people.

“Anthony Joshua embodies the values and character we want young people to emulate. We are proud of his achievements both inside and outside the ring,” he added.

Alex noted that returning to Ogun State, Joshua’s ancestral home, made the visit particularly meaningful. He explained that the donated equipment, including boxing gloves, punch pads, gum shields, and other training materials, would enable the immediate commencement of the programme.

“We want the Peace Initiative Network team to begin implementation right away. We will continue to support them as they develop boxing as a tool for community transformation,” he said.

The delegation also disclosed that participants would undergo practical training based on the Fight for Peace model, with the long-term goal of equipping local boxing clubs and community organisations to independently sustain the initiative across Nigeria.

In his remarks, Peace Initiative Network facilitator, Mr. Femi Sodipo, stated that Abeokuta is increasingly positioning itself as a hub for peacebuilding through international partnerships and sports development.

He described the visit by delegates from the United Kingdom and the United States as a significant milestone in efforts to translate commitments into tangible community impact.

Sodipo expressed optimism that the collaboration would strengthen youth engagement, promote peace through sports and deepen international cooperation.

He further revealed that Abeokuta is hosting Nigeria’s first non-contact boxing programme, designed to use sport as a tool for social development and conflict resolution.

According to him, the Peace Initiative Network has also been appointed to coordinate the inaugural SWAN National Peace Cup, while continuing to collaborate with stakeholders to advance peacebuilding initiatives through sports.

“The 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,” he said.

Earlier, Ogun State SWAN Chairman, Comrade Michael-Azeez Ogunsiji, reaffirmed the association’s commitment to promoting peace through responsible sports journalism.

He emphasised that sports journalists have a duty to report accurately, objectively, and responsibly in order to prevent misinformation that could fuel conflict.

Ogunsiji also 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.

He noted that exposure to global best practices would enable journalists to develop specialised expertise across various sports, including boxing, football, and golf, thereby raising the standard of sports journalism in Nigeria.