President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has showered Nigeria's victorious women's basketball team, D'Tigress, with a series of generous rewards following their historic fifth consecutive AfroBasket title. The announcement was made during a special reception held at the State House in Abuja, where Vice President Kashim Shettima delivered the President's address.
Each player of the championship-winning team will receive a cash prize of $100,000, in addition to a national honour, Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), and a flat. The coaching and technical staff were also recognized for their vital contributions, with each member receiving $50,000, the OON honour, and a flat.
The rewards come after D'Tigress cemented their dominance in African women's basketball by defeating Mali 78-64 in a thrilling final to secure their seventh overall AfroBasket title. The team's unbroken winning streak in the tournament now extends over several years, a testament to their skill, resilience, and teamwork.
During the reception, Vice President Shettima praised the team for being a "shining example of the nation's talent, resilience, and unity." He noted that their excellence on the court has once again put Nigeria on the global map for sporting greatness and that their achievement serves as an inspiration to young people across the country.
This presidential recognition mirrors a similar gesture extended to the Super Falcons after their recent victory at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), underscoring the government's commitment to celebrating and rewarding Nigeria's successful female athletes.
