President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has rewarded Nigeria’s women’s national basketball team, D’Tigress, with national honours, cash incentives, and housing, following their landmark victory at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket Championship, where they claimed their fifth consecutive continental title.
During a grand reception at the Presidential Villa on Monday, President Tinubu—represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima—bestowed on each player and technical staff member the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) honour.
In addition, the President approved the allocation of a flat to each team member and announced a cash reward of $100,000 (naira equivalent) for each player, while coaches and technical crew members will receive $50,000 each, in recognition of their outstanding contribution to Nigerian sports.
> "You have conquered Africa and opened the door to global greatness," President Tinubu said in his message, celebrating the team’s unwavering spirit and historic feat.
A Symbol of National Pride
The President praised the team’s commanding 78-64 win over Mali in the final, describing it as “a powerful statement of Nigerian resilience, tactical excellence, and national pride.” He highlighted their tactical comeback in the game’s early stages and their ability to rise under pressure with discipline and poise.
He gave special recognition to:
Coach Rena Wakama, applauding her as a transformational leader and role model.
Amy Okonkwo, the tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP).
Ezinne Kalu, the team’s top scorer in the final.
> "To Coach Rena Wakama, you represent the evolution of leadership in Nigerian sports… You have shattered ceilings and inspired young girls nationwide," the President remarked.
A Legacy of Women's Excellence in Sports
President Tinubu used the occasion to commend the role of Nigerian women in sports, citing the recent triumph of the Super Falcons at WAFCON 2024 and the rising dominance of Nigerian female athletes globally.
> “Our women have consistently made us proud. They have shown the world that when opportunity meets preparation, Nigerian excellence is inevitable.”
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to repositioning sports as a pillar of national development, highlighting plans to enhance sports infrastructure, youth empowerment, and economic transformation through athletic excellence.
Institutional Commendation
The President extended appreciation to:
Malam Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, for renewed focus on athlete welfare and grassroots development.
Malam Amadu Muda Kida, President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) and NNPC Ltd Chairman, for consistent team building and strategic leadership.
A Champion’s Words
D’Tigress captain and MVP Amy Okonkwo expressed gratitude to the President and First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for their support of women in sports. She emphasized the team’s pride in representing Nigeria and inspiring young girls globally.
The First Lady, in her remarks, described the team’s victory as a "resounding statement of excellence and national pride", encouraging girls and women across Nigeria to reach for greatness.
> “You’ve given this nation yet another reason to believe in the power of Nigerian women to break barriers and set new records,” she said.
Looking Ahead
With this historic win, D’Tigress becomes the first African team to qualify for the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Pre-Qualifying Tournament. The team’s sights are now set on conquering the global stage, with the full backing of the Federal Government.
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