Dr. Joseph Ayeni is a man who has given more than 55years to the development of boxing both in Nigeria and Africa at large.
Dr Ayeni has been recognised for his contribution to the boxing sector in Africa by assuming leadership roles in numerous prominent positions. Some of these roles include; Vice President African Boxing Confederation (AFBC) 2006-2014, Executive Member International Boxing Association (AIBA) 2010-2014, AIBA Certification Supervisor 2015 to date, Chairman Lagos State Boxing Grass Root Development Committee 2017- date.
His first stroke came as a shock after his retirement. The world of boxing was not prepared for such a situation. His case degenerated in that the clinics were unable to manage the health problem.
Not long after Dr Ayeni was hospitalized, the local boxing community communicated this difficult situation to the international community.
In response to this report, the President of the International Boxing Association, Umar Kremlev agreed to help him undergo treatment, and sent him to rehabilitation.
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Now, Dr. Ayeni is completely healthy, full of life and is at home with his family.
“I really believe that the IBA is a family. Every person is precious, even after retirement. I am grateful to fate that all has happened this way. Umar takes his place worthily, and he really is a man of his word. Thank you, my good friend, for giving me more days of my life! Thanks to the entire IBA boxing family for taking care of older generations,” Dr. Ayeni said.
Dr Ayeni is a man who believes in the value of sport (particularly boxing) to improve people’s lives and build communities. He is a man who believes in giving back to his community, and has worked tirelessly with other organisations. Little wonder why the community saved him in his perilous moments.
He continues to contribute time and resources towards developing boxing in Nigeria and Africa.
1 Comment
God bless Dr Ayeni and Mr Umar Kremlev!