The Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) has confirmed the successful repatriation of the body of Nigerian professional boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, who passed away tragically in Ghana earlier this year.
The body was airlifted on Monday morning, June 17, from Kotoka International Airport in Accra and is currently en route to Lagos, Nigeria, with a brief stopover in Lomé, Togo. Olanrewaju died in March under circumstances that shook the boxing communities of both Ghana and Nigeria.
In a statement released by the GBA’s Communications Directorate, the authority expressed its “profound gratitude” to Ghanaians, journalists, media houses, and the broader boxing fraternity for their solidarity and support throughout the difficult period.
To ensure a smooth and respectful handover, the GBA dispatched two of its representatives to Lagos ahead of the body’s arrival: Gideon Hassen Appiah, a GBA board member, and Lateykwei Lartey, head coach at Fit Square Boxing Gym.
Speaking to the press, GBA President Abraham Kotei Neequaye revealed that a sum of $3,000 has been sent along with the delegation to support Olanrewaju’s family. The amount includes a $1,500 donation from the GBA itself and a matching $1,500 purse contribution from Gordon Frimpong, CEO of Osibor Boxing Management, who had supported the late boxer during his time in Ghana.
The total amount will be handed over to the President of the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBofC) as part of the GBA’s tribute and financial support to the family of the late fighter.
The GBA assured the public that it will continue to provide updates on the arrival and funeral arrangements in Nigeria, reaffirming its commitment to honouring Olanrewaju’s legacy with dignity.
Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, remembered for his talent and fighting spirit, had been training and competing in Ghana prior to his untimely death. His passing has left a deep impact across both nations’ boxing circles.
