Tinubu rewards D’Tigress after fifth AfroBasket win

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has honoured Nigeria’s national women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, in recognition of their fifth consecutive AfroBasket championship win.

Each player received $100,000, while members of the 11-man coaching and technical crew were awarded $50,000 each. Additionally, all players and staff were gifted three-bedroom apartments at the Renewed Hope Estate.

In a further mark of distinction, the President conferred on the team and their technical crew the national honour, Officer of the Order of the Niger .

The announcement was made by Vice President Kashim Shettima during a grand reception held in their honour at the State House Banquet Hall, Abuja. The event was also graced by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu and the wife of the Vice President, Nana Shettima, who warmly welcomed the team at 5:05 p.m. at the New Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa.

Top government officials including the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; Chairman of the Senate Committee on Youths and Sports Development, Garba Maidoki; and Chairman of the House Committee on Sports, Kabiru Amadou were in attendance.

D’Tigress secured their seventh overall AfroBasket title after defeating Mali 78–64 in the final at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, further cementing their dominance in African women’s basketball. This triumph also earned them a spot in the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup pre-qualifiers.

The ceremony closely followed a similar celebration for the Super Falcons, who were recently hosted by President Tinubu after winning their tenth WAFCON title in Rabat, Morocco.

In remarks delivered by Vice President Shettima, Tinubu praised the D’Tigress for their unity, excellence, and the powerful message their victory sends to all Nigerians.

“Beyond being ambassadors of our nation and symbols of excellence, you have reminded us all of the power of sports to unite a diverse nation. You brought home not just a trophy, but valuable lessons in teamwork, resilience, and national pride,” he stated.

He commended the team’s resilience, especially in the final quarter, describing their performance as “grace under pressure,” and celebrated their pride in wearing the green and white with purpose and honor.

Special recognition was given to Coach Rena Wakama, lauded as a symbol of leadership transformation in Nigerian sports.

“Coach Wakama, your quiet strength and exceptional leadership have shattered ceilings and inspired a generation of girls. You rightfully stand as Africa’s best coach,” Tinubu said.

The President also celebrated individual standouts like Amy Okonkwo, the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, and Ezinne Kalu, the top scorer in the final.

“From the Super Falcons to track champions, and now a basketball dynasty, Nigerian women have never failed this nation. You have proven that where preparation meets opportunity, Nigerian excellence thrives,” he declared.

Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to prioritizing sports as a pillar of national development, viewing it not just as entertainment, but a catalyst for youth employment, education, infrastructure, and international diplomacy.

Commendations were extended to Mallam Alabi of the National Sports Commission and Malam Ahmadu Musa Kida of the Nigerian Basketball Federation for their unwavering support and investment in grassroots sports development and athlete welfare.

“To all Nigerian youth, let the story of D’Tigress be your inspiration. Greatness is born of hard work, discipline, and belief. Nigeria belongs to those who dare to dream.”