Anthony Joshua: From Nigerian Roots to Ogun State Sports Ambassador

By Oladeji Olabisi
2 Min Read
Anthony Joshua becomes a Sport brand ambassador

Anthony Joshua Ogun State Ambassador, the two-time unified heavyweight boxing champion (2016–2021), has never shied away from embracing his Nigerian heritage. Born to Nigerian parents, Joshua spent his early childhood in Nigeria before moving to the UK. In 2019, he returned to Nigeria for the first time in nearly two decades, reaffirming his connection to his roots.

Anthony Joshua’s Nigerian Identity
Joshua’s pride in his Nigerian identity is unmistakable. He sports a tattoo of Africa on his arm, symbolizing his deep ties to the continent. During his 2019 visit, he addressed critics who questioned his return after a professional loss:

“When I went to Nigeria for the first time in maybe 17 years, I went there as a non-champion. People asked why I came back without the belts. I said, ‘You respect me as a person, not just for titles.’”

A Hero’s Welcome in Ogun State
This month, Joshua returned to Nigeria, specifically to Ogun State—his ancestral homeland. The visit culminated in a historic moment: Governor Dapo Abiodun appointed Anthony Joshua Ogun State Ambassador.

Governor Abiodun’s Announcement
In a ceremony attended by Joshua’s family, Governor Abiodun praised the boxer’s achievements:

“Anthony Joshua embodies discipline and excellence. To honor him, we’re constructing the ‘Anthony Joshua Indoor Boxing Ring’ in Abeokuta and gifting him a home in Sagamu. He will also light the torch at the Gateway Sports Festival.”

The governor emphasized Joshua’s role in mentoring young athletes and boosting grassroots sports development.

Joshua’s Commitment to Ogun State
In his response, Joshua vowed to leverage his global platform to uplift Ogun State:

“I’ll showcase Ogun State to the world. This ambassadorship isn’t just a title—it’s a responsibility to inspire the next generation.”

Why This Matters
Joshua’s appointment aligns with Nigeria’s push to harness sports for youth empowerment. His story—rising from humble beginnings to global stardom—resonates deeply in a country with a burgeoning boxing scene. For more on Nigeria’s sports initiatives, visit Nigeria Sports Commission.

Share This Article
Leave a comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *