The Executive Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, has honored two-time unified world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua by naming the state’s new boxing hall after him.
This gesture was made during a ceremony on Monday when the celebrated boxer was hosted in Abeokuta.
Governor Abiodun also conferred upon Joshua a Yoruba name, “Omobowale,” meaning “the child who has come home,” in recognition of his strong ties to his heritage and his dedication to celebrating his Nigerian roots on the global stage.
During the event, the governor described Joshua as a “true ambassador of Ogun State,” applauding his international success, which has brought immense pride to the state and Nigeria.
“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,” Abiodun remarked.
As a token of appreciation for Joshua’s legacy and identification with Ogun State, the governor gifted him a country home in Sagamu, his ancestral local government area.
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The ceremony also highlighted the state’s rich history of producing world-class athletes like Oluwatobiloba Amusan and Falilat Ogunkoya.
Governor Abiodun reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to grassroots sports development and nurturing local talent.
Hon. Bukola Olopade, Director General of the National Sports Commission, was also commended for his contributions to sports development in Ogun State and across Nigeria.
Governor Abiodun praised Olopade’s transformative leadership and his role in ensuring Ogun State’s readiness to host the next National Sports Festival in May 2025.
In his remarks, Hon. Olopade lauded the governor’s vision for sports development, noting the significant strides Ogun State is making under his leadership.
He said, “Governor Abiodun’s unwavering commitment to grassroots sports and talent development positions Ogun State as a beacon of excellence in Nigerian sports.”
The event marked a celebration of Anthony Joshua’s inspiring journey and Ogun State’s continued efforts to empower athletes and foster a culture of excellence in sports.
