President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Nigeria’s national women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, for lifting their seventh African championship title at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket.

‎D’Tigress, led by Coach Rena Wakama, defeated Mali 78–64 in a gripping final on Sunday night at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

The Super Falcons had last week won the African Women’s Footbal championship for the 1oth time.

‎President Tinubu, in a message issued by his Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, said the win had brought pride and global recognition to Nigeria.

‎He lauded their skill, resilience, and teamwork, which powered them to a fifth consecutive AfroBasket title, an African record and their seventh championship overall.

‎Despite trailing in the first quarter, the president commended their determination and fighting spirit throughout the match.

He said, “Your superb performance throughout the competition has made Nigeria proud. Like the Super Falcons, you have inspired our young ladies. You embodied the indomitable Nigerian spirit, the power of unity, and the rewards of hard work. By winning the AfroBasket trophy for a record fifth consecutive time, you have written your names in history and shown the world what to expect out of Africa.”

‎Tinubu also praised Head Coach, Rena Wakama and her technical crew for their outstanding leadership and strategic execution.

‎He commended the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) for its consistent support and dedication to growing the sport.

“The Federal Government and Nigerians will never forget the sacrifices and remain grateful for the highly elevating performances. The government and the people of Nigeria celebrate you and assure you of our continued support as you prepare for the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup qualifying tournaments next March.”

‎The president expressed his eagerness to welcome the champions back to Abuja.

“I look forward to receiving the victorious team and the trophy in Abuja, while wishing you all a safe trip.”

Also, the First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, also congratulated the team for their victory in the 2025 FIBA Afrobasket Tournament in Côte d’Ivoire.

Mrs Tinubu in a statement by her Special Assistant on Media, Busola Kukoyi, expressed gladness for the historic winning at the tournament.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the first lady alongside her husband, President Bola Tinubu, while welcoming the Super Falcons on 10th WAFCON title recently, expressed optimism seeing D’Tigress bringing home the trophy as well.

Mrs Tinubu described the victory by the team as an inspiration to every young girl to dream of breaking barriers and making history through hard work and dedication.

“I congratulate D’Tigress for this historic victory at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket Tournament. To God be the Glory for yet another victory for Nigeria as you bring home the second trophy won by the nation in two weeks.

“Today, you have written another golden chapter in our dear Nation’s sporting history by defeating Mali to win your fifth consecutive FIBA Women’s AfroBasket title. With this win, you have showcased once again, the unwavering commitment and determination of Nigerian women on the global stage.

“I celebrate you, your discipline, and team spirit. Thank you for making Nigeria proud once again. Congratulations, my wonderful D’Tigress,” she said.

 (NAN)