The body of late Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, who tragically passed away in Ghana earlier this year, has been successfully repatriated to Nigeria for burial.
According to a statement by the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA), the remains of the boxer were airlifted from the Kotoka International Airport on Monday, June 17, and are expected to arrive in Lagos, Nigeria, following a brief stopover in Lomé, Togo.
The GBA expressed its deep appreciation to Ghanaians, members of the boxing community, and media outlets for their support and solidarity since the unfortunate incident occurred in March.
To represent the Authority during the final rites in Nigeria, two officials — Gideon Hassen Appiah, a GBA board member, and Lateykwei Lartey, Head Coach of Fit Square Boxing Gym — were dispatched to Lagos ahead of the arrival of the body at Murtala Muhammed International Airport.
GBA President Abraham Kotei Neequaye disclosed that the Authority had submitted a total of $3,000 to be delivered to the family of the late boxer through the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBofC). The fund comprises a $1,500 purse from Gordon Frimpong, CEO of Osibor Boxing Management, and an additional $1,500 donation from the GBA itself.
The GBA emphasized that the financial support is part of its ongoing commitment to the welfare of boxers and fostering strong ties with its Nigerian counterparts.
“The Ghana Boxing Authority remains committed to preserving the memory of Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju with dignity and supporting his family through this difficult period,” the statement read.
Further updates regarding funeral arrangements in Nigeria are expected to be communicated by the NBBofC in due course.
