President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of two Nigerian icons, legendary boxer Obisia Nwankpa and renowned folklorist and musician Mike Ejeagha, who both died recently, leaving behind enduring legacies in sports and culture.
Obisia Nwankpa, who passed away on June 2, 2025, at the age of 75, was described by Tinubu as “a towering figure in Nigerian sports whose legacy transcended the boxing ring.”
In a statement released on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu extended his heartfelt condolences to the late boxer’s family, friends, and fans.
“Nigeria’s sporting community and Nigerians will long remember the legendary boxer and coach for the honour he brought to the country in the ring and the exciting moments he gave to fans throughout his career,” Tinubu stated.
Nwankpa represented Nigeria at the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich in the light-welterweight category and went on to win gold at the 1973 All-Africa Games in Lagos and the 1974 British Commonwealth Games in Christchurch, New Zealand. His titles included Nigerian Lightweight Champion, African Boxing Union Light-Welterweight Champion, and Commonwealth Lightweight Champion.
President Tinubu also lauded Nwankpa’s post-retirement role as a coach and mentor. “The nation owes him a debt of gratitude for nurturing a new generation of boxers after retiring from active competition, including leading Nigeria’s boxing team to the Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008 Olympics,” he said.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of Nwankpa’s soul and asked God to comfort all who mourn him.
In a separate condolence message also released by Bayo Onanuga on Saturday, Tinubu paid glowing tribute to Mike Ejeagha, who died at the age of 95.
The President praised the folklorist’s dedication to preserving Igbo traditions through music and storytelling, saying his work inspired generations and upheld the cultural values of the Igbo people.
“Mike Ejeagha used his music and distinctive storytelling style to preserve and promote Igbo culture and customs, inspiring generations. His legacy lies in the power of his words and rhythms to convey wisdom, tradition, and identity,” Tinubu said.
Referring to Ejeagha’s ever-relevant song “Gwo Gwo Ngwo,” which recently regained popularity on social media, the President said the resurgence proves the timelessness of the folk legend’s message.
“May the spirit and values of Gentleman Mike Ejeagha’s music continue to remind us that music has the power to revive, heal, and redirect energy towards worthy causes that help build our nation,” Tinubu added.
He also commended the Enugu State Government, led by Governor Peter Mbah, for honouring Ejeagha while he was still alive. “It is always important to celebrate our cultural custodians in their lifetime,” he said.
Concluding his tributes, Tinubu prayed for the eternal rest of Mike Ejeagha and for divine comfort for his family, fans, and the entire cultural community who mourn his passing.
