In a grand gesture celebrating excellence and heritage, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, honoured two-time unified world heavyweight boxing champion, Anthony Joshua, by naming the State’s newly unveiled boxing hall after him. The ceremony, held on Monday, also saw the Governor bestow upon Joshua the Yoruba name “Omobowale,” meaning “the child who has come home,” recognizing the boxer’s strong ties to his roots.
Governor Abiodun praised Joshua as a global ambassador of Ogun State, whose achievements bring pride to the state and the nation. “Anthony Joshua exemplifies excellence, resilience, and humility—values that resonate deeply with us in Ogun State. Naming this Boxing Hall after him is our way of celebrating his achievements and inspiring the next generation of champions,” the Governor remarked. As a token of appreciation for his accomplishments, the Governor also gifted Joshua a country home in Sagamu, his ancestral hometown.
The Governor reaffirmed Ogun State’s commitment to nurturing talent and advancing sports development. He highlighted the state’s history of producing world-class athletes, including Oluwatobiloba Amusan and Falilat Ogunkoya, and emphasized ongoing efforts to support emerging talents. “Sports is a vital tool for youth development, empowerment, and unity. We are proud to lead by example in creating platforms for athletes to excel,” Governor Abiodun stated.
Acknowledging other contributors to sports, Governor Abiodun commended Hon. Bukola Olopade, Director General of the National Sports Commission, for his transformative role in sports development. “Hon. Olopade’s initiatives have consistently driven growth and unity in sports. His visionary leadership ensures Ogun State remains at the forefront of sports excellence in Nigeria,” the Governor concluded. Hon. Olopade reciprocated the commendation, applauding Governor Abiodun’s visionary leadership and commitment to grassroots sports, including the upcoming National Sports Festival scheduled for May 2025 in Ogun State.
