The family of late Nigerian boxing legend and former national coach, Obisia Nwakpa, is struggling to give him a befitting burial months after his passing, as his widow appeals for support from authorities and well-meaning Nigerians.
Fondly remembered as Golden Gloves in his heyday, Nwakpa died on June 2, 2025, in Lagos after a long battle with stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and memory loss.
Speaking exclusively to DAILY POST in Calabar, his wife, Mrs Franca Nwakpa, expressed sadness that despite her husband’s over 40 years of service to the nation, little concern has been shown by relevant sporting bodies towards his burial.
She said the family had spent over nine million naira on his medical care, leaving them unable to bear the cost of his funeral.
“It has been difficult for us since June,” she said. “We wrote to the Ministry of Sports, the Nigerian Olympic Committee, and the Boxing Federation, but there has been no response. It hurts because my husband gave more than 40 years of his life to boxing and to Nigeria.”
Mrs Nwakpa fondly recalled her husband’s remarkable career, highlighting his achievements as an Olympic medallist, African champion, Commonwealth Games winner, and later head coach of the national boxing team.
He was also known for mentoring and sponsoring young boxers, many of whom went on to shine internationally.
“He lived for boxing and for his country. He trained countless young people, many of whom became champions. Yet today, his remains still lie in Lagos, waiting for the honour he truly deserves,” she said.
The family is considering November 2025 for his burial in his hometown, Umunna Nsulu, Isiala Ngwa North, Abia State.
However, Mrs Nwakpa explained that poor infrastructure, including the lack of a proper country home and gully erosion which destroyed the access road to his community, as well as financial constraints, have made the burial plans even more daunting.
“Our only hope now is that the Abia State Government, under Governor Alex Otti, will extend a hand of compassion.
“Gov Otti has always stood by Abia citizens, and I believe he will not allow this great son of the soil to be buried without dignity,” she appealed.
DAILY POST learnt that former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has already sent condolences to the family, acknowledging Nwakpa’s contributions to Abia State and Nigeria.
