Nigeria’s D’Tigress have been handsomely rewarded with national honours and generous cash prizes following their historic outing at the 2025 FIBA Women’s Afrobasket in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire, Afrosport reports.
The reigning champions saw off Mali 78-64 in the final at the Palais des Sports de Treichville to clinch their seventh title and an unprecedented fifth consecutive crown – becoming the first team in history to pull off such a feat.
In recognition of their achievement, the D’Tigress were hosted at the State House Banquet Hall in Abuja on Monday, where Vice President Kashim Shettima, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu and the VP’s wife Nana Shettima led the celebrations. Also in attendance were several key government figures, including Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, Senate Committee Chair on Youth and Sports Development Garba Maidoki, and Chairman of the House Committee on Sports Kabiru Amadou.
Speaking on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, Shettima conferred the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) on the players and coaching staff. In addition, each player was awarded $100,000, while every member of the 11-man technical crew received $50,000.
The federal government also pledged a three-bedroom flat for every player and team official at the Renewed Hope Estate – a gesture matching what the Super Falcons received after their own success at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) last month in Morocco.
Following our triumphant run at the AfroBasket Women 2025 tournament, President Bola Tinubu has graciously awarded each player of the D’Tigress team a cash sum of $100,000, a plot of land, and the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON). pic.twitter.com/TGngCsAjQD
— DTigress (@DtigressNG) August 4, 2025
Delivering Tinubu’s message, Shettima praised the D’Tigress players and staff for their spirited performance, thanking them for their excellent performance at the just-concluded tournament.
He said: “It is a great honour, on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, to welcome our formidable D’Tigress to the State House. Once again, you are continental champions and now the top African team to qualify for the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup pre-qualifying tournament. You conquered Africa with a score of 78 to 64—showcasing not just tactical skill, but remarkable determination and resilience. The entire nation stands behind you with pride and support.
“My dear daughters, you faced challenges bravely, especially in the final quarter, responding not with panic but with poise. When you wore the green and white, it was more than just a uniform—you wore it with purpose, and now you wear the crown of African basketball for the fifth consecutive time.
“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. You have brought home not just a trophy, but valuable lessons for all Nigerians.”
He also lauded head coach Rena Wakama, who made history as the first female coach to win back-to-back Women’s Afrobasket titles. Captain and tournament MVP Amy Okonkwo and star guard Ezinne Kalu were not left of the praises.
He also reserved special praise for head coach Rena Wakama, who made history as the first female coach to win back-to-back Women’s Afrobasket titles. Captain and tournament MVP Amy Okonkwo, along with star guard Ezinne Kalu, were also singled out for their outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s golden campaign.
“Coach Rena Wakama, you embody the evolution of leadership in Nigerian sports. Your quiet strength and remarkable achievements have shattered ceilings and inspired countless young girls across Nigeria. You truly deserve your accolades as the best coach in Africa and beyond.
“To Amy Okonkwo, the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, and Ezinne Kalu, the top scorer in the final, your brilliance lifted the whole team, but most importantly, you played for Nigeria and made us all proud.
“Let us reflect on one profound truth: Nigerian women have never failed the nation in sports. From the Super Falcons on the world stage, to record-breakers on the track, and now a basketball dynasty, our women have consistently been a source of pride and have proven that where preparation meets opportunity, Nigerian excellence prevails.”
The president through Shettima reiterated his commitment to supporting sports development as a tool for economic growth, national unity, and youth empowerment. He also acknowledged the efforts of the Nigerian Basketball Federation (NBBF) leadership for its strides.
“The Nigerian Basketball Federation, led by Malam Ahmadu Musa Kida, also deserves recognition for consistent team development and dedication to Nigeria’s sporting glory.
“Our government will ensure that D’Tigress, their technical team, and sports leadership in Nigeria are appropriately recognised and rewarded. You have made us proud, and we will stand by you as you prepare for the global stage.
“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 and are willing to give their all to realize those dreams.
“D’Tigress: you are champions, role models, pathfinders, and true daughters of this land. It is my honor and privilege, on behalf of President Tinubu, to announce national honors for the team, coach, and technical staff; $100,000 for each player; $50,000 for the coach and technical team; and more rewards to come.
“This is true leadership—recognizing and rewarding those who have excelled for our nation. May God bless you all, may God bless Nigerian sports, and may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he concluded.
