In a ceremony held at the State House Banquet Hall in Abuja on July 30, 2025, Vice President Kashim Shettima, on behalf of President Tinubu, announced a reward of $100,000 for each player, while members of the 11-man coaching and technical crew were awarded $50,000 each. In addition, all players and staff were granted a three-bedroom flat each at the Renewed Hope Estate—a major housing initiative of the current administration.
In a move to further immortalize their achievement, President Tinubu also conferred national honours on the entire team, naming the players and technical crew Officers of the Order of the Niger (OON), one of Nigeria’s highest civilian honours.
The reception was attended by dignitaries including First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, the wife of the Vice President, Nana Shettima, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Youths and Sports Development Garba Maidoki, and Chairman of the House Committee on Sports Kabiru Amadou.
A Dominant Force in African Basketball
D’Tigress secured their continental dominance with a 78–64 victory over Mali in the final match of the 2025 AfroBasket tournament, held at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. The victory marked Nigeria’s seventh AfroBasket title overall, cementing their legacy as the undisputed powerhouse of African women’s basketball.
The warm reception at the Presidential Villa followed a similar event for the Super Falcons, Nigeria’s women’s football team, who were honoured the previous week after clinching their tenth Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title in Rabat, Morocco.
In his speech, Shettima highlighted the unifying power of sports and the exceptional example set by the D’Tigress:
“Beyond being ambassadors of our nation and symbols of excellence, you have reminded us all of the power of sports to unite a diverse nation. Your victory is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together.”
Praise for Leadership and Individual Excellence
Special mention was given to Coach Rena Wakama, whose leadership was described as a symbol of evolution and inspiration for women in sports.
“Your quiet strength and remarkable achievements have shattered ceilings and inspired countless young girls across Nigeria,” Shettima said, hailing Wakama as the best coach in Africa.
Players Amy Okonkwo, named Most Valuable Player of the tournament, and Ezinne Kalu, the team’s top scorer in the final, were also praised for their outstanding performances.
“You wore the green and white not just as a uniform, but with purpose. And now, you wear the crown of African basketball for the fifth consecutive time,” Shettima told the players.
A New Era of Sports Recognition and Investment
President Tinubu, through his vice president, reiterated that sports under his administration would no longer be viewed merely as entertainment but as a vehicle for economic growth, infrastructure, education, and youth empowerment.
The National Sports Commission, under the leadership of Mallam Alabi, and the Nigerian Basketball Federation chaired by Malam Ahmadu Musa Kida, were both recognized for their role in advancing athlete welfare and team development.
“Our government will ensure that D’Tigress, their technical team, and sports leadership in Nigeria are appropriately recognized and rewarded. You have made us proud, and we will stand by you as you prepare for the global stage,” Shettima affirmed.
The D’Tigress are now preparing for the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup pre-qualifying tournament, as the top-ranked African team. Their performance has not only brought glory to the nation but also reignited conversations about the importance of investing in women’s sports.
“To all Nigerian youth, let the story of D’Tigress inspire you. Greatness stems from hard work, discipline, and belief. Nigeria belongs to those who dare to dream,” Shettima concluded.
With renewed national support and a spotlight on female athletes, the D’Tigress' triumph may signal the beginning of a new era where women’s sports receive the recognition, funding, and respect they deserve in Nigeria’s sporting ecosystem.