Buhari to Joshua: Your victory, prove of hard work, humility

President Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated Nigerian-born boxer, Anthony Joshua, over his victory on Jermaine Franklin.

Buhari said Joshua did not allow personal setbacks and obstacles to dent his resilient spirit, adding that the boxer “demonstrated that by hard work, patience, dedication, persistence, and humility, those who dare do win.”

The former world heavyweight champion returned to winning ways with a unanimous points-decision victory at the 02 Arena in London on Saturday night.

Joshua was given the win, which was his first victory since 2020, by 118-111, 117-111, 117-111 on the scorecards of the three judges in the non-title fight.

Speaking via a statement issued on Sunday by his spokesman, Femi Adesina, President Buhari hailed Joshua for his “courage and discipline, on and off the ring, and prays that this success will be a stepping stone to one of the greatest comebacks in boxing history.”

The President noted that he believes the accomplishments of Joshua on the world stage will continue to inspire many upcoming professionals, particularly sportsmen and women, not to be discouraged by temporary defeats and setbacks.

Buhari, therefore, wished Joshua “a bright future and fulfilling career”.

The Star

Segun Ojo