The Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) has reactivated the process to transport the body of Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, who tragically passed away during a professional bout at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra on March 29, 2025. The decision to reactivate the process follows instructions from the Minister for Sports and Recreation, Hon. Kofi Iddie Adams.
Airlift Decision
The GBA, in collaboration with Osibor Boxing Management and the Nigerian High Commission in Accra, has decided to airlift Olanrewaju’s body to Nigeria instead of transporting it by road. This decision aims to expedite the process and bring relief to the boxer’s family and the Nigerian boxing community, who have been advocating for the swift repatriation of his remains.
Investigation Update
The Minister for Sports and Recreation had inaugurated a 7-member committee to investigate the cause of Olanrewaju’s death. The committee, chaired by Ambassador Major (RTD) Amarkai Amarteifio, submitted its report to the Minister on May 16, 2025. The GBA and Osibor Boxing Management had halted the repatriation process pending the outcome of the investigation .
Next Steps
The GBA President, Abraham Kotei Neequaye, has assured the Minister that he will keep him updated on the progress of the repatriation process. The Nigerian Boxing Board of Control (NBBofC) has been mounting pressure on the GBA and Osibor Boxing Management to expedite the process. The GBA will provide regular updates to the public until Olanrewaju’s body is finally airlifted to Nigeria .