President Bola Ahmed Tinubu praised Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, for reaching the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket final in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire and has urged to win the trophy.
In an official statement released on Sunday via his personal account on X, the President commended the team’s discipline, unity, and consistent performance, referring to them as a “symbol of excellence” representing Nigeria internationally.
President Tinubu stated, “Your discipline, teamwork, and resilience have brought pride to our nation.” He added, “You have represented our country with honour and earned international respect.”
The D’Tigress advanced to the final following a closely contested 75–68 win over Senegal in Saturday’s semi-final. This victory also earned them qualification for the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup qualifiers, buttressing the efforts of the Ahmadu Musa Kida-led NBBF in establishing Nigeria’s soft power through sports.
President Tinubu also commended head coach Rena Wakama, highlighting her leadership as Nigeria’s first female coach to guide the team to a continental final.
“Coach Rena Wakama’s commitment and expertise have positioned this team on the brink of making history,” the President remarked. He added that the nation offers its full support to you and your efforts.
The D’Tigress will play against Mali’s Women’s basketball team in the AfroBasket final later today at 7pm Nigerian time, as they seek a fifth consecutive title.
