Ogun to Build Boxing Arena Named After Anthony Joshua, Appoints Him State Sports Ambassador

The Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, has unveiled plans to construct a new indoor boxing arena in honor of two-time world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua.

The arena, to be named the “Anthony Joshua Indoor Boxing Ring,” will be located in Abeokuta and is aimed at promoting boxing and inspiring young athletes in the state.

Governor Abiodun made this announcement on Monday while hosting Anthony Joshua in his office. During the visit, he officially named the boxing champion as Ogun State’s sports ambassador.

The Governor also revealed that Anthony Joshua would light the torch for the Gateway Games National Sports Festival, which has been rescheduled to May next year.

“We will officially confirm you as our sports ambassador today, and we want you to come back to light the Gateway Sports Festival torch,” Governor Abiodun stated. “We are also constructing a brand-new Anthony Joshua Indoor Boxing Ring in Abeokuta to encourage you to visit home more often. Additionally, we have decided to gift you a house in Sagamu.”

Governor Abiodun urged Joshua to collaborate with the state in fostering sports development, particularly in organizing boxing tournaments. He emphasized the importance of engaging local talents and supporting the youth.

“Sports is a universal language that unites people globally. We want you to work with our Director General of the National Sports Commission and the Commissioner for Sports Development to organize activities leading to the sports festival,” the governor added.

He highlighted Ogun State’s rich pool of talents in music, arts, and sports, which continue to elevate the state’s reputation on the global stage. He assured Joshua of the government’s unwavering support for his career and described his achievements as a source of pride and inspiration for Ogun State and Nigeria.

In his response, Anthony Joshua expressed gratitude for the recognition and pledged to promote Ogun State internationally. He emphasized his commitment to showcasing the state’s talents to the world and supporting its development in sports.

Joshua’s visit and the state government’s initiatives are expected to motivate aspiring athletes and position Ogun as a hub for sports excellence in Nigeria.