President Tinubu Speaks with Anthony Joshua, Mother After Fatal Lagos-Ibadan Crash

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu held telephone conversations Monday with British-Nigerian heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua, his mother, and Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun following a tragic road accident that claimed two lives and left Joshua with minor injuries.

The calls came hours after the incident on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway near Makun, Sagamu, where Joshua was a passenger in a Lexus SUV that collided with a stationary truck around 11 a.m. Two foreign nationals died at the scene, while Joshua and others were treated at a specialised medical facility in Lagos, where he remains stable.

In a State House press release issued by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu—currently abroad—detailed his personal outreach. "I spoke with AJ on the phone to personally convey my condolences over the death of his two associates. I wished him well and prayed for him. He assured me that he is receiving the best care in the hospital," the statement quoted the President.

Tinubu added that he also spoke with Joshua's mother, offering prayers, and noted her appreciation for the call. He further contacted Governor Abiodun, who was at the hospital, and received assurances that "he will do everything possible to ensure AJ receives the best possible attention."

Earlier Monday, Tinubu posted a public message on X expressing profound sympathy. "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," he wrote. "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."

Authorities continue their probe into the crash. The Ogun and Lagos state governments have assured optimal medical care for the injured and urged motorists to prioritise safety during the festive period.