President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has spoken by telephone with Nigerian-British boxing icon and former heavyweight champion, Anthony Joshua, to express his condolences following a tragic road accident in Ogun State that claimed the lives of two of the boxer’s associates and left Joshua injured.
In a statement issued by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu said he personally reached out to Joshua to commiserate with him over the painful loss and to wish him a speedy recovery.
“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 said.
Tinubu added that he also spoke with Joshua’s mother to offer prayers and words of comfort, noting that she expressed deep appreciation for the gesture.
“I also spoke with AJ’s mother and prayed for her. She was very appreciative of my call,” he stated.
The President further disclosed that he contacted Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, who was with Joshua and others at the hospital. According to Tinubu, the governor assured him that all necessary measures were being taken to ensure that the boxing star receives the best possible medical attention.
“Additionally, I spoke to Governor Dapo Abiodun, who was in the hospital with them. The Governor assured me that he will do everything possible to ensure AJ receives the best possible attention,” Tinubu said.
Earlier, President Tinubu, who is currently outside the country, had taken to his official X (formerly Twitter) account to express profound sympathy to Joshua and his family over the accident, which occurred along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway.
“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,” the President wrote.
He stressed the importance of solidarity in moments of grief, urging Nigerians to support one another in times of adversity.
“In moments like this, we must encourage one another as brothers and sisters with a shared destiny,” Tinubu said.
The President also offered prayers for Joshua’s recovery and for the souls of those who lost their lives in the accident.
“I pray for strength, wisdom, and grace for you during this painful period. May God grant you a speedy recovery and repose to the souls of the departed,” he added.
Meanwhile, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has provided assurances regarding the health condition of Anthony Joshua and another passenger who sustained injuries in the crash.
In a statement released on Monday evening, Sanwo-Olu disclosed that Joshua and the other injured passenger were promptly evacuated to a specialised medical facility in Lagos for treatment.
“Anthony Joshua and one other passenger were immediately evacuated to a specialised medical facility in Lagos. Following several clinical assessments, doctors have confirmed that both patients are stable and do not require any emergency interventions at this time,” the governor said.
Sanwo-Olu explained that a comprehensive medical team had been assembled to closely monitor their condition and ensure that they receive appropriate care.
He further revealed that he had been briefed on Joshua’s condition and was informed that the boxer was conscious, responding well to treatment, and in communication with his family.
“I am informed that Anthony Joshua is conscious and relating well with his family,” the governor stated.
The Lagos State governor also noted that the governments of Lagos and Ogun States were working closely together to monitor the situation and provide all necessary support to the injured persons and affected families.
He added that investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident had already begun, with relevant authorities working to determine the cause of the crash and to prevent similar incidents along the busy Lagos–Ibadan Expressway.
“Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the crash have already commenced,” Sanwo-Olu said.
The governor also expressed appreciation to members of the public for the outpouring of concern, prayers, and goodwill messages since news of the accident broke.
“I appreciate the concern shown by members of the public and kindly request privacy for Anthony Joshua and his family during this difficult period,” he appealed.
The tragic incident has continued to draw nationwide attention, with political leaders, sports figures, and fans across Nigeria and beyond expressing sympathy and support for Anthony Joshua and the families of those who lost their lives.
