The Nigerian sports community has come together in a rare show of unity, extending heartfelt prayers and well wishes to the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, who recently fell ill.
There were speculations that the minister may have suffered a stroke, prompting discussions about possible changes in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet. However, sources within the Presidency confirmed that Mr. Edun is recuperating at his Abuja residence, and the President has no plans to replace him.
Interim President of the Nigeria Boxing Federation (NBF), Azania Omo-Agege, expressed his shock and concern upon hearing the news.
“It came as a big surprise to the Boxing Federation. I wish him all the best and a quick recovery,” Omo-Agege said.
He praised the minister’s consistent contributions to boxing, emphasizing his role in promoting the sport.
“We’ve been appreciating everything he has been doing for boxing. The entire board and I wish him a very quick recovery, and we want to see him strong again to come back and continue the good things he’s been doing,” he added.
Similarly, Ibrahim Gusau, President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), offered his warm wishes.
“On behalf of the NFF and the entire Nigerian football family, I wish the Honourable Minister a swift and complete recovery. His support for sports has been invaluable,” Gusau noted.
President of the Kickboxing Federation of Nigeria (KFN), Wilson Okon, described Mr. Edun as a “pillar of combat sports,” recognizing his passion and commitment.
“The Honourable Minister has been a true pillar of combat sports in Nigeria. His passion and commitment to the development of kickboxing and other combat disciplines cannot be overstated,” he said.
Other leaders, including Rafiu Ladipo of the Nigerian Boxing Board of Control (NBBC), Francis Orbih of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN), and Dr. Musa Oshodi of the Nigeria Judo Federation (NJF), all joined in prayers for his recovery.
The National Sports Commission (NSC) highlighted Mr. Edun’s dedication, recalling his presence at AKO 10, Africa’s premier Mixed Martial Arts event in August 2025, as proof of the government’s support for sports as a driver of unity and economic growth.
Appointed on August 28, 2023, Mr. Edun has been instrumental in Nigeria’s economic reform agenda, championing efforts to stabilize the naira, reduce inflation, and attract foreign investment.
Okay News reports that this collective show of solidarity from the sports sector underscores the minister’s lasting impact beyond the realm of finance — reaching into national unity through sports.
