By John Umeh
In a heartwarming display of appreciation and national pride, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has showered the victorious D’Tigress, Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, with a series of generous rewards following their remarkable triumph at the 2025 FIBA Afrobasket Championship. The team, who recently clinched their fourth consecutive continental title, were each awarded $100,000, a fully furnished apartment, and the prestigious national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).
The announcement was made during a special reception held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where President Tinubu warmly welcomed the champions and hailed them as symbols of national unity, resilience, and excellence. The President commended the D’Tigress for not only defending their title in style but also for serving as role models to millions of young Nigerian girls and athletes across the globe.
“You have brought immense pride to our nation,” Tinubu declared. “Your victory is not just a sports achievement—it is a testament to the power of hard work, teamwork, and the Nigerian spirit. This administration is committed to rewarding excellence, and you have earned your place in our hearts and in our history.”
The D’Tigress’ latest victory marks a significant milestone in Nigerian sports, as they continue to dominate the African basketball scene. Their 2025 Afrobasket win, secured with a thrilling final game performance, solidified their legacy as one of the greatest teams in African women’s basketball history.
Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh, also lauded the team for their discipline and determination, noting that the government would continue to prioritize support for Nigerian athletes at all levels. “What we’ve witnessed is more than just a win—it’s a cultural moment that uplifts and inspires. The rewards given to the players are well-deserved,” Enoh said.
The national honour of OON, conferred on each team member, further cements their elite status in Nigeria’s hall of fame. Many of the players, visibly emotional, expressed gratitude to the President for his recognition and vowed to continue making the nation proud in future tournaments.
This generous gesture by President Tinubu is seen by many as a bold statement on the importance of investing in women’s sports and celebrating Nigerian excellence. For D’Tigress, the rewards serve not only as a personal blessing but as a national reminder that greatness will always be honoured.
