The Nigerian and global boxing community is rallying to honour the memory of Kevin "Latif" Ayodele, the late trainer and close friend of heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua. This follows a tragic road accident on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway that claimed Ayodele's life.
Community Rallies with Over $180,000 Fundraiser
In a powerful display of solidarity, a fundraising campaign launched in the wake of the tragedy has seen an overwhelming response. The initiative, spearheaded by the charity SPOT Project (Supporting the People of Tomorrow), has already garnered more than $180,000 in donations. The funds are intended to create a lasting legacy for Ayodele, focusing on projects that reflect his values and community spirit.
The primary goal is to construct a mosque in his name. Organisers of the fundraiser stated their motivation clearly, expressing shock at his passing and a desire to uphold his legacy. In addition to the mosque, the campaign is also collecting donations to build a borehole, addressing essential water needs within a community.
Details of the Tragic Ogun State Accident
The fatal incident occurred on Monday, December 29, 2025, along the busy Lagos-Ibadan expressway in the Makun area of Ogun State. While Anthony Joshua survived the crash with minor injuries and was treated at a hospital in Lagos, the accident proved fatal for two of his close associates.
Ayodele, Joshua's longtime trainer, and Sina Ghami, his strength and conditioning coach, both lost their lives. Preliminary reports from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) cited excessive speed and wrongful overtaking as the likely causes of the collision.
National and International Condolences Pour In
The accident has drawn condolences from the highest levels of government and beyond. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu personally telephoned Anthony Joshua to express his sympathies and offer prayers. The gesture underscored the national significance of the boxer and the tragedy that befell his team.
Furthermore, Simon Field, the deputy head of mission at the British High Commission, visited Joshua in the hospital. The visit was followed by a joint monitoring effort by Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, who spent several hours at the medical facility to ensure the boxer received adequate care.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also joined numerous Nigerians in expressing solidarity with Joshua during this difficult time. The collective response highlights the deep impact of the loss and the widespread support for those affected.
The successful fundraiser for Latif Ayodele demonstrates how his influence extended far beyond the boxing ring. The planned mosque and borehole will serve as permanent, community-focused memorials, ensuring his spirit of contribution continues to benefit others for years to come.
