Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, has been celebrated in grand style by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu following their record-breaking fifth consecutive FIBA Women’s AfroBasket title. The team’s latest triumph not only cements their place as Africa’s dominant force in women’s basketball but has also earned them national honours, hefty cash rewards, and housing gifts.
The Presidential Villa in Abuja was alive with pride and celebration as players, coaches, top government officials, and sports stakeholders gathered at the New Banquet Hall for an official reception. Though President Tinubu was not physically present, Vice President Kashim Shettima stood in his place, delivering a stirring tribute to the team. He described D’Tigress as “exceptional ambassadors of Nigeria” who have continued to showcase grit, excellence, and unyielding determination on the continental stage.
First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, joined by Nana Shettima, wife of the Vice President, welcomed the players and coaching staff with warm embraces and words of encouragement, reflecting the nation’s collective pride in their outstanding achievement.
As a token of appreciation for their success, the President announced a series of rewards that stunned many. Each D’Tigress player will receive $100,000, while the head coach and technical staff will get $50,000 each. Beyond financial rewards, the players and officials were also granted the National Honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), recognizing their significant contribution to Nigeria’s sporting legacy. To crown it all, every player and technical crew member will be allocated a flat as a lasting gift from the federal government.
D’Tigress clinched their fifth AfroBasket title in emphatic fashion, defeating Mali 78-64 in the final at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. The team’s victory has been hailed not just as a sporting achievement but as a symbol of national unity and pride.
The celebration of D’Tigress comes shortly after the Super Falcons were similarly honoured for winning their tenth Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title in Morocco. This series of state receptions underscores the Tinubu administration’s commitment to recognizing and rewarding Nigeria’s sporting heroes.
Upon their return to Abuja, D’Tigress were greeted with joyous celebrations. Videos of their arrival captured emotional scenes, with fans, officials, and fellow athletes lauding their historic accomplishment. Notably, the Super Eagles captain shared a heartfelt message, praising the women’s team for their perseverance and representing the country with distinction.
With this unprecedented recognition, D’Tigress’ legacy continues to inspire a new generation of athletes, reminding Nigerians of the unifying power of sports and the rewards that come with excellence and dedication.
