Anthony Joshua: Nigeria's president Bola Tinubu confirms names of 2 dead, shares sympathy message after fatal accident

Anthony Joshua: Nigeria's president Bola Tinubu confirms names of 2 dead, shares sympathy message after fatal accident

Faruq Ibrahim 21:06 - 29.12.2025

Nigeria's president, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has reacted to Anthony Joshua's accident.

Nigeria’s president, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has sent a condolence message to Anthony Joshua after the two-time world heavyweight champion was involved in a ghastly car crash which claimed the lives of two of his friends. 

Tinubu’s message 

As Pulse Sports reported, Joshua was involved in a major car crash on Monday, December 29, 2025, on the Lagos-Ibadan motorway, Makun area, Ogun State. The collision took place along the busy Lagos-Ibadan motorway. The Lexus SUV carrying Joshua, with licence plate KRD 850 HN, rear-ended a stationary truck.

The incident has sparked international interest, and politicians in the country have been drawn to it. Ogun State governor Dapo Abiodun and serial presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar have both shared condolence messages. Nigeria's president. Tinubu has now joined in the commiserations.

“I extend my deep sympathies to you following the tragic accident on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, which claimed two precious lives and caused you injuries,” the message read. “This immense tragedy casts a deep shadow on this season.

“I sympathise with you and your family as you bear the emotional weight of this unfortunate incident. As a sportsman, you have always shown courage, discipline, and unwavering love for our country. These are qualities that have made you a source of national pride.

“In moments like this, we must encourage one another as brothers and sisters with a shared destiny. I pray for strength, wisdom, and grace for you during this painful period. May God grant you a speedy recovery and repose to the souls of the departed.”

(Update): Tinubu confirms death count

In a subsequent tweet, the Nigerian president confirmed that he spoke to Anthony Joshua and that the boxer was receiving the best care, with Ogun State president Dapo Abiodun on ground to ensure he receives premium medical attention.

Tinubu also confirmed that he spoke to AJ's mother and offered prayers. He also officially confirmed the deceased to be, as Pulse Sports reported, Kevin Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami.

I have spoken with AJ to personally convey my condolences over the passing of his two close associates, Kevin Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami in the recent accident. I wished him a full and speedy recovery, and prayed with him. AJ assured me he is receiving the best possible care.

I also spoke with his mother and prayed for her. She was deeply appreciative of the call. Governor Dapo Abiodun, who was at the hospital with them, assured me he will do everything possible to ensure AJ receives the best attention. May God strengthen the families and grant repose to the souls of the departed.