Anthony Joshua, a British-Nigerian boxer, has been offered Ghanaian citizenship by President John Mahama.
In a further sign of cultural unity and athletic diplomacy, the president of Ghana also named boxer Anthony Joshua a continental ambassador.
When Joshua paid a courtesy call at the Jubilee House in Accra, the offer was made.
President Mahama, Ghanaian boxing great Azumah Nelson, Sports Minister Kofi Adams, and other dignitaries welcomed Joshua.
President Mahama, who was clearly happy to see Joshua, commended the former unified world heavyweight champion for his accomplishments and cultural effect on a global scale.
Mahama said, “We will give you a Ghanaian passport if that is what you want,” to the cheers of the audience. He will serve as our envoy. He is the kind of person we need to help transform the lives of young people. As one of the causes he supports, we hope he will represent boxing in Africa as an ambassador.
The president stated that a new generation of African boxers might be motivated by Joshua’s participation. Following him, a new generation of boxers will emerge who will transform their home societies and make Africa proud. In Ghana, you are a well-adored icon,” Mahama continued.
Since starting his trip to Ghana on Friday, June 13, Joshua has been involved in media appearances, training sessions, and outreach initiatives.
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But his visit also sparked a new discussion about the long-standing cultural rivalry between Ghana and Nigeria.
During an open discussion at Jubilee House, Joshua acknowledged that he had not initially planned to visit Ghana because of prejudiced stories he had heard in Nigeria.
“I honestly didn’t have any plans to visit Ghana,” Joshua stated. For some reason, everyone in Nigeria prioritizes Nigeria over Ghana. But now that I’m here, I feel as though they have been deceiving me as I look about.
Applause and laughter greeted his lighthearted admission, underscoring the longstanding yet playful rivalry between the two West African countries.
Joshua went on to say how much he admired Ghana’s hospitality, infrastructure, and cultural diversity.
“I’m in awe of your stunning nation, incredible culture, hospitality, airport, and organization, and I can’t wait to return and tell everyone how wonderful this place is,” he remarked.
