President of Ghana, John Mahama, has offered British-Nigerian boxer Anthony Joshua honourary Ghanaian citizenship and appointed him ambassador for boxing in Africa.
Mahama made the offer when Joshua paid him a courtesy visit as part of his tour of Ghana.
The two-time former unified heavyweight champion is visiting several African countries to reconnect with his roots and inspire young athletes.
Speaking during the visit, Mahama said, “If you want us to give you a Ghanaian passport, we will give you.”
He also praised Joshua’s impact on African youth and added, “He will be our ambassador. It needs people like him to help change the lives of young people, and so we wish him to be an ambassador for boxing in Africa.”
In response, Joshua expressed admiration for Ghana, saying, “Coming to Ghana actually wasn’t on my agenda… But I’m now here and I’m looking around like, they’ve been lying to me.”
“I’m impressed with your beautiful country, amazing culture, hospitality, the airport, the organisation…” he added.
Joshua’s visit included stops in historic locations and engagements with schoolchildren, athletes and boxing enthusiasts. He is also expected to continue his African tour with further stops in Nigeria and other countries.
The 34-year-old boxer, whose parents are Nigerians, has repeatedly spoken of his African heritage and the importance of connecting with his roots.
