Anthony Joshua gets Yoruba name from Ogun State Governor

Former world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua has been celebrated by the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, who honoured him with a Yoruba name and other recognitions on Monday, 30th December 2024.

At a ceremony held in Joshua’s honour, Governor Abiodun named the state’s new boxing hall after the two-time unified world champion, acknowledging his outstanding contributions to sports and his pride in his Nigerian heritage.

The governor also gave Joshua a Yoruba name, “Omobowale,” which means “the child who has come home.” This was in recognition of the boxer’s dedication to celebrating his roots and representing Ogun State and Nigeria on the global stage.

Governor Abiodun praised Joshua as a symbol of excellence, resilience, and humility, saying, “Anthony Joshua is a true ambassador of Ogun State. His achievements bring immense pride to our state and the entire country. Naming the boxing hall after him is our way of celebrating his success and inspiring future champions.”

In appreciation of Joshua’s achievements and his connection to Ogun State, the governor also gifted him a country home in Sagamu, his local government area.

This honour further cements Joshua’s status as a celebrated figure in Nigeria and an inspiration to many aspiring athletes.