President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reached out to offer his condolences to former world heavyweight boxing champion, Anthony Joshua, following a devastating road accident along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
President's Personal Condolence Calls
The tragic incident, which occurred in Ogun State, resulted in the loss of two associates travelling with the Nigerian-British sports icon. In a show of solidarity and sympathy, President Tinubu personally spoke with both Anthony Joshua and his mother via telephone on Sunday, December 29, 2024.
Details of the conversation were made public by the President's aide, Bayo Onanuga. According to the statement, President Tinubu used the opportunity to express his heartfelt condolences directly to Joshua, known fondly as AJ.
"I spoke with AJ on the phone to personally convey my condolences over the death of his two associates," the President's message read. He added that he wished the boxer well and offered prayers for his recovery, to which Joshua responded that he was receiving excellent medical care at the hospital.
Assurances from Ogun State Governor
The President's engagement did not stop with the boxer and his family. He also placed a call to the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, who was physically present at the hospital attending to the situation.
Governor Abiodun, during the conversation, assured President Tinubu that the state government would mobilize all necessary resources to ensure Anthony Joshua receives the best possible medical attention and support during this difficult time.
"I also spoke with AJ's mother and prayed for her. She was very appreciative of my call," President Tinubu stated, highlighting the family's gratitude for the gesture from the nation's leader.
Community and National Response
This incident has once again brought attention to the critical issue of road safety on Nigeria's major highways, particularly the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. The swift response from both the Presidency and the Ogun State Government underscores the high profile of the victim and the national concern for such tragedies.
The accident serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of road safety measures. As Anthony Joshua recuperates, the nation joins President Tinubu in mourning the lost lives and wishing the champion a speedy recovery.
