President Bola Ahmed Tinubu spoke by telephone with Nigerian-British former heavyweight boxing champion, Anthony Joshua, following a tragic road accident in Ogun State that left the boxer injured and claimed the lives of two of his associates.
In a State House press release issued on Sunday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, the President said he personally reached out to Joshua to commiserate with him over the loss.
“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,” President Tinubu said. “He assured me that he is receiving the best care in the hospital.”
According to the statement, the President also spoke with Joshua’s mother, offering prayers and words of comfort.
“I also spoke with AJ’s mother and prayed for her. She was very appreciative of my call,” Tinubu added.
The President further disclosed that he contacted Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, who was present at the hospital where Joshua is receiving treatment.
“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,” the President said.
Earlier, President Tinubu, who is currently outside the country, had expressed deep sympathy in a message posted on X (formerly Twitter) following 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,” 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 urged national solidarity in moments of grief, stressing the importance of mutual support.
“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 said.
