President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has rewarded the victorious Nigerian women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, with $100,000 each, national honours, and one flat per player following their historic fifth consecutive title win at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket Championship in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
The announcement was made during a Presidential Reception held on Monday, August 4, 2025, at the State House in Abuja. The triumphant team, led by Head Coach Rena Wakama, defeated Mali 78–64 in the final at the Palais des Sports de Treichville, cementing their dominance in African women’s basketball.
President Tinubu, who was represented at the reception by Vice President Kashim Shettima, praised the athletes as “ambassadors of excellence” and pledged unwavering national support as they prepare for global competitions.
“You have conquered Africa 78 to 64. That scoreline is more than a victory—it is a testament to your tactical brilliance, teamwork, and determination,” Shettima said. “You go forth with the blessings and support of the entire nation.”
Each member of the coaching and technical crew will also receive $50,000 in appreciation of their efforts. In addition, the entire team, including officials, has been conferred with the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) national honour.
The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, commended the team’s discipline and team spirit, noting that their success symbolizes the potential of Nigerian youth, particularly women, in global sports.
“You are more than athletes; you are ambassadors of Nigeria’s greatness,” the First Lady remarked. “Your performance is highly commendable, and your journey will continue to inspire generations to come.”
She also lauded Coach Wakama’s leadership and resilience, describing it as a key driver behind the team’s remarkable performance.
Captain of the team, Annie Okonkwo, in her remarks, thanked the President and First Lady for their unwavering support and pledged that the team would continue to push boundaries.
“It is a thing of pride to represent our country,” she said. “We don’t believe the sky is our limit—we believe we can go beyond it.”
The event, which drew government officials, sports stakeholders, and supporters, marks a significant moment in Nigeria’s sports history and underscores the administration’s commitment to encouraging excellence in sports development.
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