President Mahama Offers Ghanaian Citizenship to Anthony Joshua, Boxer Reacts to Nigeria-Ghana Rivalry
Ghanaian President John Mahama has stated his desire to grant Ghanaian citizenship to British-Nigerian boxer Anthony Joshua.
In another act of sporting diplomacy and cultural harmony, the president of Ghana named boxer Anthony Joshua a continental ambassador.
Joshua made the offer when he paid a courtesy call at the Jubilee House in Accra.
Sports Minister Kofi Adams, Ghanaian boxing great Azumah Nelson, President Mahama, and other dignitaries welcomed Joshua.
President Mahama, who was clearly delighted by Joshua’s arrival and global popularity, commended the former unified world heavyweight champion for his accomplishments and cultural influence.
With a round of applause, Mahama said, “If you want us to give you a Ghanaian passport, we will give you.” He is going to serve as our ambassador. To assist transform the lives of young people, we need individuals like him. We want him to represent boxing in Africa as an ambassador and consider that to be one of the causes he supports.
Joshua’s participation might motivate a new generation of African fighters, the president said. He will be followed by a generation of boxers who will transform their home societies and make Africa proud. Ghanaians adore you as an icon,” Mahama continued.
Beginning on Friday, June 13, Joshua’s trip to Ghana has been jam-packed with media appearances, training sessions, and outreach initiatives.
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But his visit also sparked new discussions about Ghana and Nigeria’s long-standing cultural rivalry.
In an open interview at Jubilee House, Joshua acknowledged that, partly because of skewed stories he had heard in Nigeria, Ghana had not initially been on his itinerary.
Joshua stated, “I really didn’t have any plans to travel to Ghana.” “Because everyone in Nigeria, for whatever reason, thinks Nigeria is better than Ghana.” However, now that I’m here, I’m staring about as if they’ve been deceiving me.
The lighthearted but well-known rivalry between the two West African countries was highlighted by the laughs and clapping that greeted his amusing disclosure.
Joshua continued by expressing his profound appreciation for Ghana’s hospitality, infrastructure, and cultural diversity.
“Your lovely country, incredible culture, hospitality, airport, and organization have impressed me, and I can’t wait to return and tell everyone in the world how beautiful this place is,” he remarked.
