GBA President confident of re-election

Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) President Abraham Kotei Neequaye has thrown down the gauntlet ahead of the upcoming GBA Elective Congress in June, declaring that his tenure has transformed the leadership role into the hottest seat in Ghanaian boxing.

Confident of his achievements, the incumbent insists he remains the best candidate to lead the sport into a new era of growth.

Mr Neequaye, who took over four years ago after serving as the GBA’s 2nd Vice-President under Peter Zwennes, is determined to secure another term. The energy expert and veteran boxing administrator, who first joined the GBA executive in 2013, is eager to consolidate what he describes as “the good work” he has started.

With a few months to the crucial elections—where two vice presidents, a treasurer, and four executive members will also be chosen—no official nomination dates have been announced. However, interest in the presidency is intensifying.

Prominent promoter Alex Ntiamoah-Boakye, CEO of Box Office Sports Promotions, was the first to declare his candidacy last month.

Other contenders reportedly include current GBA 1st Vice-President Rabbon Dodoo, a former boxer and a retired army officer; and the 2nd Vice-President, Roger Barnor, a top referee.

Also in the frame are Cabic Promotions CEO Ivan Bruce-Cudjoe, renowned trainer Adama Addy (now Nii Gonti Adjor I, the Atukpai Mantse and Gbese Mankralo) who guided Joseph King Kong Agbeko to a world title, and former GBA Vice-President, Henry Manly-Spain, who suffered a shock defeat to Mr Neequaye four years ago.

Despite the growing field, the GBA boss is unfazed. In fact, he sees the surge in interest as proof of his impact.

Speaking to the Graphic Sports at the GBA offices inside Bukom Boxing Arena, the incumbent was bullish about his re-election bid.

"I have done a lot, and I must continue. This seat has become very hot and attractive because of the work I have done," he said, gesturing towards his office chair.

"It shows the level I have taken the sport to—so much that many people now want to step in. But let me tell you, there is already a big fish in this seat, and unless I choose not to contest, it will be very difficult for them," he added confidently.

While acknowledging that there is always room for improvement, Mr Neequaye believes his administration has revitalised professional boxing in Ghana.

"Through the league, we now have 20 fight nights per year, keeping young boxers active and competitive. At least ten promising fighters have gained invaluable experience, and they are well on track to becoming world champions," he said.

Building a legacy

Beyond the league, Mr Neequaye has initiated structural reforms that he argues justify his continued leadership.

"I am the first GBA President to buy an official car for the Authority. Because of my efforts, the Charles Quartey Boxing Federation, Ghana Army, and Panix gyms are all driving brand-new cars as rewards for excelling in the league. And there’s another car waiting for this season’s winner," he revealed.

However, he admits that inadequate equipment and facilities remain a major challenge. "I couldn’t produce a world champion in my first term because the best prospects were already past their peak when I took over. But now, we have young fighters aged 18-23 ready to step up. The key is proper management, and I will put structures in place to ensure these boxers reach the top," he assured.