At a Glance
- British former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua injured in a Lagos crash that killed two close associates.
- Accident blamed on excessive speed and wrongful overtaking, hitting a stationary truck.
- Nigeria recorded 5,421 deaths in 9,570 road accidents in 2024, up 340 from 2023.
- Why it matters: It highlights urgent road safety reforms needed across Nigeria.
Anthony Joshua, the two-time world champion, was left with minor injuries after a high-speed crash near Lagos that claimed the lives of his strength-and-conditioning coach and trainer. The incident has reignited debate over Nigeria’s hazardous highways.
Crash Details
The Federal Road Safety Corps said the collision occurred on a major highway linking Lagos and Ogun state when Joshua’s car, traveling at high speed, overtook a stationary truck and lost control. Witnesses reported a tire burst at the moment of impact.
- Excessive speed
- Wrongful overtaking
- Stationary truck
- Tire burst
Joshua’s Condition and Aftermath
Joshua is in stable condition and will remain in hospital for further observation, according to his promoter, Matchroom Boxing. His recent bout against Jake Paul on Dec. 19 was a fitness-boosting match ahead of future title fights.
Matchroom Boxing stated:
> “He is under observation while recovering from minor injuries.”
Loss of Close Associates
Sina Ghami, Joshua’s strength-and-conditioning coach, and Latif Ayodele, his trainer, were killed. They had posted table-tennis clips together earlier that day. Friends described Ayodele as pure-hearted and sincere.
Mustafa Briggs said:
> “He had not a bad intention or a bad bone in his body. He loved life, he enjoyed life.”
Tyson Fury posted:
> “This is so sad. May god give them a good bed in heaven.”
Chris Eubank Jr posted:
> “Thank god our heavyweight champ survived that horrible car crash. And pray for the two fallen soldiers Latz & Sina & their families. I knew both … they were genuinely good men. Rest in Peace boys.”
Shannon Courtenay posted:
> “As well as Sina and Latz please keep the big man (Joshua) in your prayers. No man should have to go through and witness what he went through today losing his two best friends.”
Wladimir Klitschko wrote:
> “I’m deeply saddened to hear about AJ and his close-knit group of friends. Having had the pleasure of engaging in an unforgettable battle with AJ, I’ve always regarded him as a true class act who commands my utmost respect. My heart goes out to him, and I wish him and his loved ones all the best during this difficult time.”
Road Safety Context
Nigeria recorded 5,421 deaths in 9,570 road accidents in 2024, a rise of 340 from the previous year. Factors cited include dilapidated roads, lax enforcement, and driver indiscipline.
| Metric | 2024 | 2023 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deaths | 5,421 | 5,081 | +340 |
The high-profile accident has prompted serious concerns about road safety on Nigerian highways, where accidents are common.
Key Takeaways
- Anthony Joshua injured; two close associates died.
- Nigeria’s road safety crisis highlighted with rising fatality numbers.
- The incident underscores the need for stricter enforcement and road maintenance.
The tragedy has put a spotlight on the urgent need to improve road safety across Nigeria, as the country grapples with one of the world’s highest rates of traffic fatalities.
