President Bola Tinubu has honoured Nigeria’s national women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, with a generous reward package following their historic fifth consecutive AfroBasket championship win.
Newsonspot reports that in recognition of their remarkable achievement, each player will receive $100,000, while each member of the 11-man coaching and technical crew is set to receive $50,000. Additionally, all players and staff were awarded a three-bedroom flat at the Renewed Hope Estate.
Further cementing their legacy, President Tinubu also conferred the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) on the team and their technical crew.
The announcement was made by Vice President Kashim Shettima during a grand reception held at the State House Banquet Hall, Abuja, where the team was officially received on behalf of the President. The event, which began at 5:05 p.m., was attended by top dignitaries including the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and the wife of the Vice President, Nana Shettima.
Also present were 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.
D’Tigress were celebrated for their outstanding performance after defeating Mali 78-64 in the finals held in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire – a victory that marked their seventh AfroBasket title overall and confirmed their place as Africa’s top women’s basketball team.
Read This: D’Tigress Make History with Fifth Consecutive AfroBasket Title, Extend Unbeaten Run to 29 Games…
Vice President Shettima, speaking on behalf of President Tinubu, praised the team for their unity, excellence, and representation of Nigerian resilience:
“Your victory is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together. You brought home more than a trophy – you delivered hope, unity, and national pride.”
He described the team as symbols of discipline, strength, and determination, highlighting their performance in the final quarter as a lesson in composure under pressure. He went on to commend Coach Rena Wakama for her trailblazing role:
“Coach Rena Wakama, your quiet strength and accomplishments have shattered barriers and inspired young girls across Nigeria. You truly deserve your accolades as Africa’s best coach.”
Tributes were also paid to standout players Amy Okonkwo, the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, and Ezinne Kalu, the top scorer in the final match.
The reception echoed a similar event held for the Super Falcons, who were recently honoured after winning their tenth WAFCON title in Rabat, Morocco.
Read Also: President Tinubu Honours Super Falcons with National Awards, Homes, And Cash Gifts…
President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to positioning sports as a vital tool for national development, job creation, diplomacy, and youth engagement. He acknowledged the efforts of the National Sports Commission, led by Mallam Alabi, and the Nigerian Basketball Federation, chaired by Ahmadu Musa Kida, for their contributions to athlete welfare, reforms, and grassroots development.
In closing, Shettima encouraged Nigerian youths to draw inspiration from the story of D’Tigress:
“Greatness comes from hard work and belief. Nigeria belongs to those who dare to dream and give their best to achieve it.”
He added that more rewards and recognition would follow, assuring that the government stands firmly behind D’Tigress as they prepare for the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Pre-Qualifying Tournament.
The victory has cemented the D’Tigress’ place as the most feared women basketball team in Africa.
