President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced a substantial reward for Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, following their historic win at the 2025 FIBA Women’s Afrobasket Championship.
Each player will receive $100,000, while members of the coaching and technical staff will receive $50,000 each.
Additionally, the entire team and coaching staff have been awarded the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) national honour, alongside plots of land for each member.
The announcement took place during a state reception at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where the team was celebrated for securing their fifth consecutive Afrobasket title—and seventh overall—by defeating Mali 78–64 in the final at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
Bayo Onanuga, the presidential spokesperson, emphasised the fairness of the reward, noting, “No discrimination: President Tinubu rewards the D’Tigress the way he rewarded the Super Falcons. A plot of land for each team member and the technical crew; $100,000 for each D’Tigress player and $50,000 for the technical crew; and the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) for both the team and crew.”
A Legacy of Dominance
D’Tigress’s victory continues their unbroken winning streak that began in 2017, reinforcing Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s basketball. The team’s victory was a result of resilience, tactical brilliance, and standout individual performances.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, speaking on behalf of the president, praised the team’s accomplishment as a reflection of Nigeria’s unity and talent. “You have brought great pride to Nigeria. Your excellence on the court has placed our nation on the global sporting map once again,” Shettima stated.
He further acknowledged the team’s resilience, particularly in their comeback during the final quarter. “You wore the green and white not just as clothes, but as a symbol of unity—and now you wear the crown as champions of African basketball for the fifth time.”
Praising Leadership and Individual Excellence
The Vice President also lauded Coach Rena Wakama for becoming the first woman to lead D’Tigress to an Afrobasket title, noting her historic achievement as a symbol of evolving leadership in Nigerian sports.
“You represent the new face of leadership in Nigerian sports,” Shettima said. “Your quiet strength and success have shattered barriers, inspiring countless young girls across the country who now know that no dream is too big for a Nigerian woman.”
He further highlighted the exceptional performances of Amy Okonkwo, the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, and Ezinne Kalu, who was the top scorer in the final. “Amy Okonkwo and Ezinne Kalu, your efforts have elevated the entire team. Most importantly, you didn’t play for yourselves—you played for Nigeria,” Shettima added.
Celebrating Nigerian Women in Sports
The celebration of D’Tigress’s victory mirrors the national recognition given to the Super Falcons, who recently secured their tenth Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title. These victories have propelled Nigerian women to the forefront of global sports.
“Nigerian women have always delivered for the nation in sports,” Vice President Shettima remarked. “From the Super Falcons to our world-record athletes on the track, and now building a basketball dynasty, Nigerian women have continually made us proud.”
Voices of Inspiration
First Lady Oluremi Tinubu expressed immense pride in the team’s achievement, calling it a testament to their hard work and excellence. “This victory is not just a win on the court,” she said. “It is a moment that will inspire generations of Nigerian girls and women to dream big, boldly, and pursue greatness.”
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Amy Okonkwo, speaking on behalf of her teammates, conveyed their gratitude. “We are thankful to represent our country and for the opportunity to continue our excellence and support the gift that God has given us.”
With this remarkable victory, D’Tigress has not only claimed another championship but solidified its place as one of Africa’s most formidable sports teams, with a legacy that will inspire future generations
Sunday Michael Ogwu is a Nigerian journalist and editor of Pinnacle Daily. He is known for his work in business and economic reporting. He has held editorial roles in prominent Nigerian media outlets, where he has focused on economic policy, financial markets, and developmental issues affecting Nigeria and Africa more broadly.
