Tinubu Okays Guinness World Record Fight, Stepheny Bernard Leads Bash Ali Movement
By Genesis ogiri
Nigeria is set to record a landmark achievement in global sports history following the approval by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the country to host the first-ever Guinness World Record fight on African soil. The historic bout, which has never before been staged outside the United States of America, positions Nigeria as the first African nation to host the prestigious event, marking a significant milestone for the continent.
The hosting rights were granted to Nigeria by the United States, with the International Boxing Organization (IBO) and the World Boxing Federation (WBF) officially endorsing the decision. President Tinubu has consequently granted Bash Ali, OON, the authority to host the fight in Nigeria, a move widely seen as a strong endorsement of Nigeria’s capacity to deliver a world-class sporting event.
Speaking on the development, Amb. Dr. Stepheny Bernard, President and Founder of the Bash Ali Movement Worldwide, disclosed that the event will attract participants and dignitaries from 132 countries across the globe. She noted that President Tinubu has directed that all 36 states of the federation, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), be fully involved in the planning and execution, ensuring nationwide representation and ownership.
To achieve this broad-based inclusion, the Bash Ali Movement Worldwide has commenced the process of appointing state executives across Nigeria. According to Bernard, each state chapter will be led by a State Coordinator and supported by key officials including a Vice Coordinator, Secretary, Treasurer, Women Leader, and Media Team, all tasked with grassroots mobilization and effective coordination.
Beyond the historic fight, Bernard revealed that the initiative will open international opportunities for members of the movement. Selected individuals will participate in global tours covering eight countries—America, the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, Mexico, Ukraine, Korea, and India—while additional visits are planned to global destinations such as Dubai, Saudi Arabia, China, and Doha, Qatar.
She further explained that the Bash Ali Movement Worldwide has created multiple job opportunities for its members, many of which come with structured salaries and long-term engagement. The initiative integrates mentorship, training, skill acquisition, and empowerment programmes aimed at ensuring sustainable livelihoods and financial independence for participants.
The movement maintains a strong digital presence across platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Telegram, and YouTube, while also running affiliated initiatives such as the BAMCare Foundation, a Modeling Agency, the BAM Supporters Club, and various empowerment and capacity-building programmes. These platforms, Bernard said, are designed to keep members actively engaged and economically empowered.
According to the organizers, the Bash Ali Movement Worldwide boasts a global membership of over four million people, including participants from other African countries who are expected to travel to Nigeria for the event. Bernard added that the movement has secured partnerships with several state governments, with discussions ongoing with others to broaden institutional support.
The project has also attracted support from major corporate sponsors including Globacom, Adidas, Pocari Sweat, Interswitch, Verve, Nixem Bank, the Bank of Industry, Nigerian Lotto, and Naija Bet. It is further backed by key institutions such as the Presidency, the National Assembly, select state governments, traditional rulers, and sports authorities. Bernard described the forthcoming event as “a defining moment for Nigeria and Africa,” calling on Nigerians at home and abroad to invite friends and family to be part of the historic occasion.
