The Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) has confirmed the successful repatriation of the body of the late Nigerian boxing champion, Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, back to Nigeria.

In a statement released on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, the GBA Communication Directorate announced that the boxer’s remains were airlifted from Accra and were en route to Lagos, with a scheduled stopover in Lomé. This marks the conclusion of several months of efforts following Olanrewaju’s tragic death in the Ghanaian capital earlier this year.

The GBA extended heartfelt thanks to the Ghanaian public, media, and boxing community for their unwavering support during this difficult period. The Authority also promised to keep the public updated on the body’s arrival in Nigeria and the subsequent funeral arrangements.

Gabriel Olanrewaju, a former Nigerian national champion, passed away on March 29, 2025, after a professional fight at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra. His death shocked the boxing world and prompted the establishment of a special committee to investigate the circumstances.

The GBA secured all necessary approvals for repatriation, including critical health ministry reports. GBA President Abraham Kotei Neequaye played a key role in managing logistics and settling associated costs, including a $1,000 cargo flight fee and GH¢5,000 in customs charges.

The Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBofC), alongside the boxer’s family, requested that the repatriation take place on June 17 to allow proper funeral preparations.

To ensure compliance with diplomatic protocols, the GBA submitted all documentation to Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

A committee led by Major (Rtd) Amarkai Amarteifio investigated the incident. The panel included former GBA President Peter Zwennes, sports journalist Ekow Asmah, legal experts Samuel Bartels and Juliana Addo-Yobo, referee Eddie Pappoe, and sports medicine expert Dr. Martin Engmann. Their report was presented to the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

Sports Minister Kofi Iddie Adams affirmed the government’s commitment to implementing the committee’s recommendations. He described the tragedy as a stark reminder of the need for reform, emphasizing that the findings provide transparency and lessons for all sports federations. “Life is precious, and this incident serves as a wake-up call,” he stated.

Major Amarteifio highlighted the challenges facing Ghanaian boxing and called for urgent reforms to protect athletes. He noted the report offers a critical opportunity to address ongoing issues within the sport.

Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey has expressed strong confidence in the Black Stars’ ambition to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The four-time African champions boosted their chances of making it to the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with consecutive victories in March.

Wins against Chad and Madagascar propelled Ghana to the top of Group I, currently holding 15 points with four matches remaining in the qualification campaign.

Speaking to 3Sports, the Arsenal midfielder shared his optimism about Ghana making their fifth appearance at the World Cup.

“As players, we are determined to be at the World Cup again. We experienced how amazing it was last time, and we want to be there once more. Hopefully, we win the remaining matches and secure our spot,” said the 31-year-old.

The Black Stars are set to reconvene in September for Matchday 7 and 8 fixtures against Chad and Mali.

As excitement builds for the upcoming African Cup of Nations (AFCON), the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially announced TECNO, the AI-powered technology brand and subsidiary of Transsion Holdings, as the Official Global Partner for the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Morocco 2025, as well as the 2027 edition, which will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.

This strategic partnership reflects TECNO’s vision of empowering young Africans through the intersection of technology and sports. With its brand philosophy, “Stop at Nothing,” TECNO aims to inspire and equip the next generation across the continent to pursue their dreams and reach new heights.

The announcement comes on the heels of TECNO’s successful collaboration with CAF during the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Côte d’Ivoire 2023, where the brand served as the exclusive smartphone sponsor. That partnership delivered record-breaking engagement and deepened TECNO’s investment in African football, laying the foundation for this renewed alliance.

CAF General Secretary, Véron Mosengo-Omba, made the announcement in Nairobi, Kenya, stating:

“The growing success of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations has led to several high-impact sponsorships. TECNO’s continued support will play a vital role in helping Africa’s biggest sporting event expand its reach and influence. On behalf of CAF and its 54 Member Associations, we express our sincere gratitude to TECNO for investing in the future of African football.”

Benjamin Jiang, Vice President of Transsion Holdings, also expressed enthusiasm about the renewed partnership:

“This collaboration is a reflection of the trust and shared success we’ve built with CAF. In our previous engagement, we witnessed how football sparked passion and how AI-powered technology connected and empowered millions across Africa.”

He continued:

“This partnership goes far beyond the game. It represents a shared ambition—a platform for young Africans to thrive, driven by innovation and progress. It underscores our commitment to using AI-driven solutions to shape a brighter future for the continent.”

As part of its pan-African commitment, TECNO is also continuing its “Dream Field Renovation” campaign, a community initiative launched with CAF in 2024. The project aims to renovate 100 football fields in underserved communities across Africa by 2028, promoting healthy living, youth engagement, and access to quality sports infrastructure.

About TECNO
TECNO is a global technology brand powered by artificial intelligence, operating in over 70 markets across five continents. The company is dedicated to transforming digital experiences in emerging markets through a bold blend of cutting-edge technology and contemporary design.

TECNO’s product ecosystem includes AI-enabled smartphones, wearables, laptops, tablets, gaming devices, the proprietary HiOS operating system, and smart home solutions. Guided by its brand ethos, “Stop at Nothing,” TECNO is committed to empowering forward-thinking individuals to unlock their potential and pursue a brighter future.