African champions D’Tigress have received documents for houses and national honours promised by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu following their 2025 Afrobasket victory in Côte d’Ivoire.
The presentation took place in Lyon, France, during the FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament. National Sports Commission (NSC) Chairman Shehu Dikko and Director-General Bukola Olopade handed over certificates for national honours and house title documents allocated to the players in Abuja by the Federal Government.
Dikko said the gesture underscores the administration’s commitment to rewarding excellence and fulfilling promises to Nigerian athletes promptly. “I thank Mr President for restoring confidence in Nigerian sports and proving that sports can transform lives and livelihoods,” he said.
He added that, unlike in the past, the current government had demonstrated readiness to honour its commitments without delay. According to Dikko, the President recognises the team for consistently placing Nigeria on the global map through dedication, patriotism, and resilience. He also assured the team that cash rewards earlier promised by the President were in the final stage and would soon be credited to their accounts.
Olopade noted that Tinubu’s approach is redefining sports development in Nigeria to align with global standards, where athletes are properly rewarded. “The prompt fulfilment of this pledge proves the priority the administration places on sports and athletes’ welfare,” he said, adding that the reward system continues to inspire Nigerian athletes to deliver outstanding performances.
President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation, Musa Kida, thanked Tinubu for prioritising athletes’ welfare and creating a lasting legacy for Nigerian sports.
Head coach Rena Wakama expressed gratitude to the President, assuring Nigerians that the team would continue to make the country proud. Team captain Amy Okonkwo also thanked the President on behalf of the players, pledging that their commitment to national success would remain unwavering.
