Nigerian Leaders Rally Behind Boxer Following Tragic Loss of Two Close Associates.

Ahmed Bola Tinubu

Nigerian leaders and prominent figures have poured in messages of sympathy and support for British-Nigerian heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua following the tragic road accident on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Makun, Ogun State, on December 29, 2025.

The crash claimed the lives of two of Joshua’s close associates, Kevin Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami, while the 36-year-old sustained minor injuries and is in stable condition at a specialised hospital in Lagos.

President Bola Tinubu led the tributes, personally calling Joshua and his mother to convey condolences. In statements on X, he said: “I extend my deep sympathies… This immense tragedy casts a deep shadow on this season. I sympathise with you and your family… As a sportsman, you have always shown courage… I pray for strength, wisdom, and grace… May God grant you a speedy recovery and repose to the souls of the departed.”

He later added: “I have spoken with AJ… over the passing of his two close associates… I wished him a full and speedy recovery, and prayed with him. AJ assured me he is receiving the best possible care… Governor Dapo Abiodun… assured me he will do everything possible to ensure AJ receives the best attention.”

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar expressed: “I am deeply saddened… I stand in full solidarity with him during this difficult moment and pray for his swift and complete recovery. Anthony remains a symbol of strength and resilience…” He also extended condolences to the bereaved families.

Peter Obi (2023 Labour Party presidential candidate) noted:
“It is particularly worrisome that this incident occurred while he was in Nigeria… May God grant the departed eternal rest.”

Other voices included former Ogun Governor Ibikunle Amosun, who mourned the “grievous loss” and wished Joshua a speedy recovery; Bukola Olopade (National Sports Commission DG), thanking God for sparing Joshua’s life; and Azania Omo-Agege (Nigerian Boxing Federation), calling Joshua “a man of resilience.”

The outpouring reflects Joshua’s status as a national pride icon of Nigerian heritage. Investigations continue into the causes – cited as excessive speed and wrongful overtaking by FRSC. Speedy recovery, AJ, thoughts with the families of the deceased.