President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced a reward of $100,000 for each member of Nigeria’s national women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, in recognition of their recent triumph at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket Championship.
Speaking through Vice-President Kashim Shettima at a reception held in their honour at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, the president also conferred National Honours on the players, and gifted a flat to each team member.
“It is my honour and privilege, on behalf of President Tinubu, to announce national honours for the team, coach, and technical staff; $100,000 for each player; $50,000 for the coach and technical team; and more rewards to come. This is true leadership—recognising and rewarding those who have excelled for our nation,” Shettima declared.
President Tinubu described the team’s victory as a source of national pride, highlighting the power of sports to unify the country.
“Your victory is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together. You have brought home not just a trophy, but valuable lessons for all Nigerians.”
D’Tigress defeated Mali 78–64 in the final match held at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, securing Nigeria’s fifth consecutive AfroBasket title and seventh overall.
Tinubu commended Coach Rena Wakama for her historic leadership and the role she has played in breaking barriers for women in sport.
“You embody the evolution of leadership in Nigerian sports. Your quiet strength and remarkable achievements have shattered ceilings and inspired countless young girls across Nigeria.”
He also praised individual standouts: Amy Okonkwo, the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, and Ezinne Kalu, the top scorer in the final, for lifting the entire team with their performance.
“My dear daughters, you wore the green and white with purpose—and now you wear the crown of African basketball for the fifth consecutive time.”
The president lauded the consistent achievements of Nigerian women in global sports, citing the Super Falcons and track stars as further evidence of Nigerian women’s impact on the international stage.
“Our women have consistently been a source of pride and have proven that where preparation meets opportunity, Nigerian excellence prevails.”
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to repositioning sports as a pillar of national development and economic transformation.
“Sports is not just entertainment—it is infrastructure, education, diplomacy, and a powerful tool for youth employment.”
The president also commended the National Sports Commission for renewed focus on athlete welfare and institutional reform, and praised the Nigeria Basketball Federation, led by Malam Ahmadu Kida, for their commitment to developing the team.
“Our government will ensure that D’Tigress, their technical team, and sports leadership in Nigeria are appropriately recognised and rewarded. You have made us proud, and we will stand by you as you prepare for the global stage.”
In her remarks, First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, described the team’s success as a defining moment for women and girls across Nigeria.
“This is not just a win on the court, but a resounding statement of hard work, excellence, and national pride.”
She said the victory would inspire generations, adding that hard work and teamwork remain the cornerstones of success.
“While the nation is still basking in the joy of our women’s football success, D’Tigress has given us another reason to believe in the power of Nigerian women to break barriers and set new records.”
