President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has hailed Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, for their emphatic 78-64 victory over Mali in the final of the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket Championship, describing the win as “more than just a game” and a “powerful statement of Nigerian resilience, tactical excellence, and national pride.”

Speaking during a Presidential Reception held at the State House, Abuja, in honour of the team following their return from Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, the President praised the players for their historic fifth consecutive continental title, which he described as a monumental achievement in Nigerian and African sports.

 

“You fought back from behind in the first quarter, not with panic but poise. You wore the green and white not just as colours, but as a symbol of conviction and hope. And now, you wear the crown as queens of African basketball for the fifth consecutive time,” the President declared.

 

He further lauded the team’s mental strength and unity, highlighting the significance of their victory in inspiring the next generation of Nigerian girls to dream boldly.

 

“Your quiet strength and historic achievements have shattered ceilings and inspired countless young girls nationwide, who now know that no dream is too bold for a Nigerian woman. Indeed, you deserved your award as the best coach in Africa and the world,” he said, addressing head coach Rena Wakama, who became the first female coach to win the AfroBasket title.

 

President Tinubu also recognised the outstanding individual contributions of key players during the tournament.

 

“To Amy Okonkwo, the tournament MVP, and Ezinne Kalu, top scorer in the final, your brilliance elevated the entire team. But most importantly, you did not play for yourselves. You played for and won with Nigeria.”

 

D’Tigress’ 78-64 win over Mali at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan sealed their seventh AfroBasket title overall, and cemented their legacy as the most dominant women’s basketball team in African history.

 

The President, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, had earlier announced cash rewards of $100,000 for each player and $50,000 for each member of the technical crew during the ceremony.

 

The reception was attended by top government officials, sports administrators, and dignitaries, including the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who commended the team for their discipline, hard work, and unity.

 

The President concluded his address with a promise of continued support for women’s sports development and a charge to D’Tigress to carry the Nigerian flag high as they set their sights on global competitions ahead.