Tinubu Celebrates D’Tigress with Cash, National Honours and Flats After AfroBasket Triumph

Tinubu Celebrates D’Tigress with Cash, National Honours and Flats After AfroBasket Triumph

…Hosts Team to Presidential Reception After Historic Fifth Straight FIBA AfroBasket Win

ABUJA – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has honoured Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, with $100,000 each, flats, and national honours following their recent triumph at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket Championship in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

The team, led by Head Coach Rena Wakama, made history by clinching their fifth consecutive continental title, defeating Mali 78–64 in a thrilling final at the Palais des Sports de Treichville.

In a show of appreciation and national pride, President Tinubu, represented by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima at a Presidential Reception held in their honour at the State House, praised the players as symbols of unity, resilience, and national excellence.

“You have made us proud,” he said. “Beyond being ambassadors of this great nation and symbols of excellence, you have once again reminded us of the promise of sports in a nation this diverse. This victory is what happens when we walk together.”

“You conquered Africa with a score of 78 to 64 — not just with tactical strength, but with heart, discipline, and vision. You go forth with the blessings and support of the entire nation.”

In recognition of their victory, each of the 12 players will receive $100,000, while each member of the technical crew will receive $50,000. The entire team, including officials, was also awarded a flat each and conferred with the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).

Also speaking at the reception, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu described the team as a shining example of hard work, teamwork, and national pride.

“You are not just athletes, you are ambassadors of a great nation,” she said. “Your victory comes at a time when Nigeria is basking in the glory of sporting excellence, following the Super Falcons’ recent triumph. Your achievement is yet another reminder that Nigerian women are unstoppable.”

She also commended Coach Wakama for her leadership, describing her as a role model for young women in sports.

“To the technical team, especially Coach Rena Wakama, your leadership and tutelage have paid off. Your performance is highly commendable. You embody courage and commitment.”

Team Captain Annie Okonkwo thanked the President and First Lady for the honour and encouragement. Speaking on behalf of the team, she said:

“We are proud to represent Nigeria. We do not think the sky is our limit—we believe we can go beyond that. We are motivated and ready for the global stage.”

The celebration marks a significant moment in Nigeria’s sporting history, as the D’Tigress continue to dominate African basketball and set their sights on global competition.

The reception, which drew dignitaries from across the sports and political spectrum, ended with high praise for the team’s unity, discipline, and unwavering national spirit.

SIGNED
Busola Kukoyi
SSA Media to the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
Monday, 4th August 2025