Chijioke Gabriel
President Bola Tinubu has honoured Nigeria’s national women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, with a generous reward package following their historic fifth consecutive FIBA Women’s AfroBasket title in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
Each player will receive $100,000, while the 11-man coaching and technical crew will get $50,000 each. All members of the team and staff are also being awarded a three-bedroom flat at the Renewed Hope Estate.
In addition to the financial and housing rewards, President Tinubu conferred the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger on the players and technical crew.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who announced the rewards during a reception at the State House Banquet Hall in Abuja, received the team on behalf of the President. They were welcomed alongside First Lady Oluremi Tinubu and the wife of the Vice President, Nana Shettima.
The team had earlier touched down at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja after their 78–64 triumph over Mali in the final. The victory marked D’Tigress’ seventh AfroBasket title and solidified their dominance in African women’s basketball. The team now qualifies for the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup pre-qualifying tournament.
Vice President Shettima, addressing the players, praised their exceptional display of unity, talent, and resilience, stating they had brought home more than a trophy—valuable lessons for all Nigerians. He called them ambassadors of excellence and unity.
He singled out head coach Rena Wakama for her leadership, describing her as an embodiment of evolving leadership in Nigerian sports. Amy Okonkwo, the tournament’s MVP, and Ezinne Kalu, the final’s top scorer, also received personal commendations for their critical roles in the team’s success.
The reception for D’Tigress mirrors an earlier one hosted for the Super Falcons, who recently won their 10th WAFCON title in Morocco. The President noted that Nigerian women have consistently uplifted the nation through sports—from football to athletics to basketball—and emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting sports as a tool for development, youth empowerment, and diplomacy.
Tinubu also acknowledged the efforts of the National Sports Commission, led by Mallam Alabi, for focusing on athlete welfare, grassroots development, and institutional reforms. He commended the Nigerian Basketball Federation, chaired by Malam Ahmadu Musa Kida, for its consistency in team development and dedication to national glory.
In his final remarks, Shettima encouraged Nigerian youth to draw inspiration from D’Tigress’ journey and achievements. He concluded by reaffirming the government’s promise to stand by the team as they prepare for global competition.
