…the D’Tigress will face either Mali or Egypt in the final.
ABUJA, NIGERIA – The iNews Times reports that President Bola Tinubu has applauded Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, for their display of discipline, unity, and consistent excellence at the ongoing 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket tournament in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
The President’s commendation came in the wake of the team’s intense 75–68 triumph over perennial rivals Senegal – a victory that not only secured their spot in the final for a record fifth consecutive time but also cemented their place in the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup qualifiers.
Describing the win as “the final before the final,” Tinubu praised the defending champions for maintaining their dominance in African basketball, noting that it was their seventh win over Senegal in a historic rivalry.
“The discipline, focus, and team spirit consistently displayed by D’Tigress throughout this tournament have truly brought honour to our nation and earned global respect for our players and coaches,” Tinubu said in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
The President gave special recognition to head coach Rena Wakama, Nigeria’s first female head coach in the sport, for her transformative impact on the team.
“I especially commend Coach Wakama. Her leadership and experience, both from her days on the court and now from the bench, continue to elevate this team to new heights in a highly competitive sport,” Tinubu stated.
He assured the team of his full backing as they prepare to chase their fifth consecutive AfroBasket title and their seventh overall.
“We stand firmly behind D’Tigress as they pursue this historic milestone. Nigeria is proud, and we will continue to support them every step of the way,” the President concluded.
The D’Tigress will face either Mali or Egypt in the final as they aim to extend their golden era in African women’s basketball.
