THIS DAWN — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sympathy and solidarity with Nigerian‑British former heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua following a tragic accident along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway.
The incident, which occurred in Ogun State, left Joshua injured and claimed the lives of two of his close associates.
In a personal gesture, President Tinubu spoke directly with Joshua and his mother, offering condolences and prayers, while assuring them of the government’s support.
Reports indicate that Joshua was traveling with his associates when the accident occurred.
While details of the crash remain under investigation, it has been confirmed that two of Joshua’s companions lost their lives.
The boxer himself sustained injuries and was admitted to a hospital in Ogun State, where he is receiving medical care.
The tragedy has cast a shadow over Nigeria’s sporting community and sparked widespread grief among fans and citizens.
Tinubu’s Personal Phone Call
President Tinubu, currently abroad, placed a telephone call to Anthony Joshua to personally convey his condolences.
In his remarks, Tinubu said: “I spoke with AJ on the phone to personally convey my condolences over the death of his two associates.
“I wished him well and prayed for him. He assured me that he is receiving the best care in the hospital.”
The President also reached out to Joshua’s mother, offering prayers and words of comfort.
According to Tinubu, she was “very appreciative” of the call, which underscored the President’s personal concern for the family during this difficult time.
In addition to speaking with Joshua and his mother, President Tinubu contacted Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, who was present at the hospital.
The Governor assured the President that every effort was being made to ensure Joshua received the best possible medical attention.
Tinubu’s engagement highlights the coordination between federal and state authorities in responding to the incident and supporting the affected family.
Statement on X
Earlier, President Tinubu had issued a public statement on X (formerly Twitter), expressing profound sympathy for Joshua and his family.
He wrote: “I sympathise with you and your family as you bear the emotional weight of this unfortunate incident.
“As a sportsman, you have always shown courage, discipline, and unwavering love for our country.
“These are qualities that have made you a source of national pride.”
Tinubu added that in moments of tragedy, Nigerians must encourage one another as “brothers and sisters with a shared destiny.”
He prayed for Joshua’s speedy recovery and for repose to the souls of the departed.
National and International Reactions
The accident and Tinubu’s response have drawn reactions across Nigeria and beyond.
Fans of Anthony Joshua, who has long been celebrated as a symbol of Nigerian resilience and global sporting excellence, expressed shock and sorrow.
Many praised the President’s personal outreach, noting that it reflected empathy and recognition of Joshua’s contributions to national pride.
International sports communities also conveyed support, with messages of solidarity pouring in from boxing federations and athletes worldwide.
Joshua’s dual identity as a British‑Nigerian figure has made him a global ambassador for both nations, amplifying the impact of the tragedy.
Symbolism of Tinubu’s Gesture
Tinubu’s decision to personally call Joshua and his mother carries symbolic weight.
It demonstrates the importance of sports figures in Nigeria’s national identity and the government’s recognition of their role in inspiring unity and pride.
By extending condolences directly, Tinubu reinforced the message that the nation stands with Joshua during his time of grief and recovery.
The tragic accident involving Anthony Joshua has shaken Nigeria, reminding citizens of the fragility of life and the importance of solidarity in times of crisis.
President Tinubu’s personal phone calls to Joshua and his mother, coupled with his public statement, reflect a leadership style that seeks to combine empathy with reassurance.
As Joshua recovers and mourns the loss of his associates, the nation rallies behind him, offering prayers and support.
The coming days will be critical for Joshua’s recovery, but the outpouring of sympathy—from the highest levels of government to ordinary citizens—underscores his enduring place as a source of national pride and inspiration.
