President Bola Tinubu has celebrated Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, for their fifth consecutive Afrobasket title, rewarding each player with $100,000, a three-bedroom flat at the Renewed Hope Estate, and the national honor of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON). The 11-member coaching and technical crew also received $50,000 each alongside the same national honor. This reception follows a similar honor for the Super Falcons, who received $100,000 each for their tenth WAFCON title a week earlier.
The announcement was made by Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Tinubu, during a grand reception at the State House Banquet Hall in Abuja on Monday, August 4, 2025.
President Tinubu, through Shettima, praised the team’s resilience, tactical prowess, and role in uniting Nigerians through sports.
He highlighted Coach Rena Wakama’s leadership, noting her as a trailblazer for young Nigerian women, and commended standout players Amy Okonkwo, the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, and Ezinne Kalu, the top scorer in the final. “You have reminded us of the power of sports to unite a diverse nation,” Tinubu said, emphasizing the team’s embodiment of Nigerian excellence.
The President also acknowledged the National Sports Commission and the Nigerian Basketball Federation for their contributions to athlete welfare and team development.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sports as a driver of national development, citing its impact on infrastructure, education, and youth empowerment.
The rewards for D’Tigress have sparked discussions online, with Nigerians applauding the government’s recognition of sporting excellence while some debate the consistency of such rewards across other sectors and try to justify it.
D’Tigress’ historic achievement and the government’s generous rewards underscore Nigeria’s growing dominance in African women’s sports and its commitment to celebrating its champions. Indeed, 9ja no dey carry last.
