Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun has announced that former two-time world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua will serve as the torchbearer for the rescheduled 2024 National Sports Festival.
During a meeting at his office in the Gateway State on Monday, December 30, Governor Abiodun expressed his enthusiasm for Joshua’s involvement, stating, “We are thrilled to officially welcome you as our sports ambassador and request that you return to ignite the torch for the Gateway Sports Festival.”
The Governor also unveiled plans for the construction of a new indoor boxing ring named after Anthony Joshua, which will be located in a stadium in Abeokuta. He emphasized the importance of this facility, saying, “This new boxing ring will encourage you to visit home more frequently and foster a vibrant sports culture in our state.”
In addition to these initiatives, the Governor offered Joshua a new residence in Sagamu, aiming to strengthen their partnership in sports development.
He encouraged Joshua to collaborate with the Director General of the National Sports Commission and the state Commissioner for Sports Development to organize a boxing championship in Ogun State.
Governor Abiodun praised Joshua’s remarkable achievements on the global stage, affirming that his administration is committed to supporting his career in every possible way.
“Your return home will serve as an inspiration to many aspiring young athletes in Ogun State, and we have a wealth of talent here,” he remarked.
In response, Joshua expressed his eagerness to promote Ogun State on the world stage, highlighting the abundance of talent that the state has to offer.
