President Mahama Offers Anthony Joshua Ghanaian Citizenship, Names Him Continental Boxing Ambassador

British-Nigerian boxing champion Anthony Joshua has been offered Ghanaian citizenship by former President John Mahama, who also appointed him as Africa’s continental ambassador for boxing.

The announcement came during Joshua’s courtesy visit to the Jubilee House in Accra, where he was warmly received by Mahama, Ghanaian boxing icon Azumah Nelson, Sports Minister Kofi Adams, and other top officials.

Impressed by Joshua’s global success and influence, President Mahama praised the former unified heavyweight champion for his impact on youth and sports development.

“If you want us to give you a Ghanaian passport, we will give you,” Mahama said, sparking applause. “He will be our ambassador. We need people like him to help change the lives of young people. We wish him to be an ambassador for boxing in Africa.”

Mahama expressed hope that Joshua’s role would inspire a new generation of African boxing talents, saying, “You are an icon very much loved in Ghana. After you, there will be a wave of boxers who will also make Africa proud.”

Joshua’s visit to Ghana, which began on Friday, June 13, included community outreach, training sessions, and media interactions. However, his presence also reignited light-hearted discussions about the cultural rivalry between Nigeria and Ghana.

Speaking candidly during his visit, Joshua revealed that Ghana wasn’t originally part of his travel plans due to perceptions he grew up hearing in Nigeria.

“Coming to Ghana actually wasn’t on my agenda,” he said. “Because, for some reason, everyone in Nigeria puts Nigeria above Ghana. But I’m now here, and I’m looking around like they’ve been lying to me.”

His remark drew laughter and applause, underscoring the friendly tension that has long existed between the two West African nations.

Joshua went on to express admiration for Ghana’s beauty, organisation, and culture.

“I’m impressed with your beautiful country, amazing culture, hospitality, the airport, the organisation, and I can’t wait to go back and tell everyone across the world how beautiful this place is,” he added.