Federal Government Fulfills Pledge to D'Tigress with Property Titles and National Honours

Federal Government Delivers on Promises to D'Tigress in Lyon Ceremony

The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially redeemed its pledge to the national women's basketball team, D'Tigress, by presenting property titles and national honours certificates in a ceremony held in Lyon, France. This action fulfills commitments made by President Bola Tinubu following the team's historic victory at the FIBA AfroBasket Championship in 2025, where they secured their fifth consecutive title and a record seventh overall championship.

Presentation of Rewards in France

Yesterday, officials from the National Sports Commission (NSC), led by Chairman Shehu Dikko, conducted the presentation in Lyon, where D'Tigress is currently participating in the 2026 FIBA World Cup qualifying tournament. The event marked a tangible recognition of the team's achievements, with players receiving documents for three-bedroom flats at the Renewed Hope Estate in Abuja and certificates for the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).

In addition to the players, the coaching and management staff were also honoured, as promised, with houses, $50,000 each, and national honours. This comprehensive reward package underscores the government's commitment to supporting and incentivizing athletic excellence on the international stage.

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Background of the Pledge

The promises were initially made by President Tinubu during a reception for the team after their triumph in Cote d'Ivoire last year. D'Tigress defeated Mali with a score of 78–64 to clinch the AfroBasket title, further cementing their status as Africa's premier basketball powerhouse. The government's follow-through on these pledges is seen as a significant step in acknowledging the sacrifices and dedication of Nigerian athletes.

This fulfillment of promises is expected to boost morale within the sports community and encourage other athletes to strive for similar accolades. It highlights the importance of governmental support in fostering a culture of recognition and reward for sporting achievements, which can inspire future generations of Nigerian sportsmen and women.

As D'Tigress continues to compete in the FIBA World Cup qualifiers, this gesture from the Federal Government serves as a motivational boost, reinforcing the value placed on their contributions to national pride and sports development. The team's ongoing success and the government's responsive actions demonstrate a positive synergy between athletic performance and institutional support.