Nigerians and basketball fans around the world are still celebrating the incredible performance of D’Tigress, Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, at the ongoing Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
The team, led by Coach Rena Wakama, made history by becoming the first African male or female basketball team to reach the quarterfinals of the Olympic Games.
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Their fierce battle against the world’s top-seeded team, the United States, showcased their exceptional talent, determination, and resilience, earning them widespread admiration.
Engr. Ahmadu Musa Kida, President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), expressed immense pride in the team’s accomplishments.
He described their journey as gallant, brave, and historic, attributing their success to the team’s uncommon zeal, passion, and never-say-die attitude that epitomizes the Nigerian spirit.
Kida also acknowledged the significant contributions of the NBBF board, whose efforts have helped elevate the standard of basketball in Nigeria over the past seven years.
In addition to recognizing the support from the Federal Government and the Sports Ministry, Kida called on Nigerians at home and abroad to urge the government to honor the D’Tigress with national awards.
He believes such recognition is well-deserved, given the team’s role in making Nigeria and Africa proud on the global stage.
Echoing these sentiments, Ambassador (Rev.) Samuel Ikpea, National Chairman of the Nigeria Football Supporters Club, expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance. He noted that their success brings a refreshing sense of pride to the nation amid ongoing socio-economic challenges.
Ikpea also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to celebrate these patriotic athletes with national honors, which he believes will serve as motivation for future achievements.
Nigeria’s Pillar of Sports, High Chief Donatus Ejidike-Agu, also emphasized the importance of celebrating the D’Tigress.
He urged the government to demonstrate its commitment to gender equality by awarding the team national honors, highlighting the pivotal role that Nigerian women and teams have played in raising the country’s profile on the global stage.
As the D’Tigress continue to make history, the nation stands united in its support, celebrating their success and the pride they bring to Nigeria.
