Tinubu, First Lady congratulate D’Tigress on reaching fifth consecutive AfroBasket final

By Kunle Sanni –

President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu have congratulated Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, on their semi-final victory at the ongoing FIBA Women’s AfroBasket tournament in Côte d’Ivoire.

D’Tigress edged out arch-rivals Senegal 75–68 in a tightly contested match dubbed “the final before the final,” securing a place in the championship game for the fifth consecutive edition and reinforcing their dominance in African women’s basketball.

In a statement, President Tinubu commended the team’s discipline, resilience, and teamwork, describing their performance as a source of national pride and international recognition.

“I have observed the discipline, focus, and team spirit consistently displayed by D’Tigress throughout this tournament—qualities that have brought honour to our nation and earned respect for our players and coaches worldwide,” Tinubu said.

He gave special recognition to Rena Wakama, Nigeria’s first female head coach, applauding her leadership and inspiring transition from player to coach.

“I especially commend Rena Wakama, whose leadership and experience—both on the court and now from the bench—continue to inspire D’Tigress to new heights in this highly competitive sport,” he added.

The President reaffirmed his support for the team as they aim for a fifth straight AfroBasket title and a seventh overall, while also celebrating their qualification for the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup qualifying tournaments.

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu also expressed pride in the team’s achievements and their decade-long unbeaten run in the competition, declaring, “We all await your arrival, with the trophy again.”