President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has revealed that he personally spoke with former heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua and his mother following a tragic road accident in Ogun State that left the boxer injured and claimed the lives of two of his associates.
The deceased were identified as Kevin Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami, who were travelling with Joshua at the time of the accident along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway.
In a statement issued on Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu said he reached out to Joshua to express his condolences and offer prayers for his 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 was quoted as saying.
Tinubu added that he also spoke with the boxer’s mother to offer comfort during the difficult moment. “I prayed for her, and she was very appreciative of my call,” he said.
The President further disclosed that he contacted Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, who was present at the hospital where Joshua was receiving treatment. According to Tinubu, the governor assured him that all necessary measures were being taken to ensure the boxer receives the best possible medical care.
Earlier, in a message posted on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, President Tinubu—who is currently outside the country—expressed deep sympathy to Joshua and his family over the incident.
“I sympathise with you and your family as you bear the emotional weight of this unfortunate incident,” the President wrote. “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.”
He added, “In moments like this, we must encourage one another as brothers and sisters with a shared destiny. 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.”
Joshua and his entourage were reportedly in Nigeria for the Yuletide celebrations, following the boxer’s recent victory over YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul.
Just hours before the fatal accident, the former heavyweight champion had shared a video on social media showing himself and one of the deceased associates, Kevin Latif Ayodele, playing table tennis—an image that has since drawn emotional reactions from fans and supporters.
The incident has continued to draw widespread sympathy from Nigerians and the global sporting community, as tributes pour in for the victims and prayers continue for Joshua’s recovery.
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