The Minister of Sports and Recreation Kofi Iddie Adams, has issued a heartfelt statement expressing deep sorrow and condolences following the tragic passing of Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju.
Olanrewaju, a promising light-heavyweight athlete, tragically died after participating in an international boxing contest at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra, Ghana.
The eight-round scheduled fight was against Ghanaian boxer Jon Mbanugu and was sanctioned by the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA).
“It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that I, on behalf of the Ministry of Sports and Recreation and the Government of Ghana, extend my deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Nigerian boxer, Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju,” said Kofi Iddie Adams in the official press release issued by the Ministry.
Describing the late boxer as “a promising athlete who displayed exceptional talent, passion, and courage in the ring,” the Minister expressed sympathy not only to Olanrewaju’s loved ones but also to the Nigerian boxing community.
“Gabriel’s untimely departure not only deprives boxing of an admirable competitor but also reminds us of the unpredictable nature of the sport we passionately love,” said Adams.
The Ministry of Sports and Recreation, together with the Ghana Boxing Authority, has pledged to cooperate fully with investigations into the circumstances surrounding Olanrewaju’s death.
“While we await the official medical report regarding the cause of Gabriel’s passing, the Ministry, together with the Ghana Boxing Authority, pledges full cooperation to ensure a thorough investigation and to support all efforts aimed at improving the safety of our athletes,” Kofi Adams affirmed.
In addition to expressing his condolences, the Minister extended his thoughts and prayers to the family, fellow athletes, and all those affected by this heartbreaking incident.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Gabriel’s family, his fellow athletes, and all affected by this tragedy. May we all find solace during this difficult period and continue to work together to safeguard the wellbeing of athletes across the continent.”
