Buhari reminds Anthony Joshua of his Nigerian heritage after victory against Jermaine Franklin
President Muhammadu Buhari has issued congratulations to English professional boxer of Nigerian descent Anthony Joshua.
Late on Saturday, April 1, 2023, Joshua recorded a unanimous decision victory against American professional boxer Jermaine Franklin at the 02 Arena in London.
It was a much-needed victory for Joshua after he suffered back-to-back defeats to Ukranian professional boxer Oleksandr Usyk.
President Buhari congratulates Anthony Joshua
As president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Buhari decided to congratulate one of the outstanding citizens representing the country.
Following a 12-round battle against Franklin Joshua finally won his first fight since the year 2020.
Buhari celebrated Joshua's return to winning ways with a statement on his official social media platforms.
Along with a picture of Joshua was a message that said, "I celebrate @anthonyjoshua’s victory over a formidable opponent.
"He has demonstrated that through hard work, dedication, discipline, persistence and humility, those who dare do win.
"I pray that this will be a stepping stone to one of the greatest comebacks in boxing history."
Anthony Joshua and Buhari have history
Joshua born in Watford, United Kingdom has been in touch with his Nigerian roots and now holds dual citizenship.
He has a long-standing relationship with the retired Nigerian army major general with their meetings going viral.
Joshua went viral when he prostrated before presenting his IBF, IBO, WBA, and WBO heavyweight titles to Buhari back in 2019.
Since then Buhari has conferred Joshua with the Officer of The Federal Republic of Nigeria national title late last year.
Buhari was not the only renowned politician to celebrate Joshua on his victory against Franklin.
12:38 - 02.04.2023
President-elect Bola Tinubu congratulates Anthony Joshua on victory against Jermaine Franklin
'Nigeria is proud of you' - President-elect Bola Tinubu congratulates Anthony Joshua on victory against Jermaine Franklin
Former governor of Kano state, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso who contested for the presidential post under the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) praised Joshua for his performance.
In a statement on his official social media platforms, Kwankwaso said, "Congratulations on your very important win, @anthonyjoshua.
"Your victory is a testament to the unmatched Nigerian grit and willpower. - RMK."
Former Lagos State governor and president-elect under the All Progressive Congress (APC) Bola Tinubu also issued a congratulatory message to Joshua on social media.
The message to the former champion posted by Tinubu said, "Congratulations Champ! @AnthonyJoshua.
"Determination and perseverance always pays off. Nigeria is proud of you! I am proud of you!."
Joshua is expected to return to Dallas Texas in the United States of America (USA) to continue preparation for his next fight scheduled for July or August.
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