Anthony Joshua Meets President Tinubu, Appointed Torchbearer for National Sports Festival
Renowned two-time world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua paid a visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at his private residence in Lagos on Wednesday.
Gists9ja reports that the visit was confirmed by Olusegun Dada, Special Assistant to the President on Social Media, through a post shared on X (formerly Twitter). During the meeting, Joshua presented President Tinubu with a personalized autographed boxing glove as a sign of respect and admiration.
Dada’s post read: “Champ @anthonyjoshua pays homage to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at his residence in Lagos. Presents him with his autographed glove.”
Joshua’s engagement with prominent Nigerian leaders did not stop there. Shortly after his visit to President Tinubu, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun announced that the boxing icon had been chosen as the official torchbearer for the rescheduled 2024 National Sports Festival.
In a meeting held at the Governor’s office in Abeokuta on Monday, December 30, Governor Abiodun expressed his excitement about Joshua’s involvement in promoting sports in Nigeria. He welcomed the athlete as a sports ambassador for Ogun State and extended an invitation for him to inaugurate the Gateway Sports Festival.
“It is a great honor to welcome you as our sports ambassador. We eagerly look forward to your participation as the torchbearer for the upcoming festival, which will inspire countless young Nigerians,” Governor Abiodun stated.
As part of efforts to honor Joshua’s achievements and encourage his continued connection with his roots, the Governor revealed plans to construct an indoor boxing arena in Abeokuta, the state capital. The facility, which will bear Joshua’s name, aims to foster talent development in boxing and other sports.
“This new indoor boxing ring, to be located within one of our major stadiums, will serve as a hub for nurturing young talent. We hope it inspires you to visit more often and motivates aspiring athletes across the state,” Abiodun added.
To further strengthen ties, the Governor announced the allocation of a new residence for Joshua in his hometown of Sagamu. Additionally, he encouraged the boxing champion to collaborate with state officials, including the Director General of the National Sports Commission and the Commissioner for Sports Development, to organize a major boxing championship in Ogun State.
Governor Abiodun commended Joshua for his extraordinary achievements on the international stage, highlighting the inspiration he provides to millions of Nigerians. He affirmed his administration’s unwavering support for Joshua’s career and its broader commitment to advancing sports in the state.
With these gestures, Ogun State hopes to position itself as a hub for sports excellence while celebrating one of its most distinguished sons.