By VICTOR OKOYE

African champions D’Tigress have received documents for houses and national honours promised by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu after their 2025 Afrobasket victory in Côte d’Ivoire.

The presentation was made in Lyon, France, venue of the FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament, by National Sports Commission (NSC) Chairman, Shehu Dikko, and Director-General, Bukola Olopade.

The players and officials received certificates for national honours and title documents to houses allocated to them in Abuja by the Federal Government.

Dikko said the gesture showed the administration’s commitment to rewarding excellence and fulfilling promises made to Nigerian athletes promptly.

He noted that, unlike in the past when such promises lingered, the current government had demonstrated readiness to honour its commitments without delay.

“I thank Mr President for restoring confidence in Nigerian sports and proving that sports can transform lives and livelihoods,” Dikko said.

According to him, the President appreciates the team for consistently placing Nigeria on the global map through dedication, patriotism and resilience.

Dikko also assured the team that the cash rewards earlier promised by the President were in the final stage and would soon be paid into their accounts.

Olopade said Tinubu’s approach was redefining sports development in Nigeria in line with global standards where athletes are properly rewarded.

He described the prompt fulfilment of the pledge as proof of the priority the administration places on sports and athletes’ welfare.

Olopade added that the President’s reward system had continued to inspire Nigerian athletes to deliver outstanding performances for the country.

President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation, Musa Kida, thanked Tinubu for prioritising athletes’ welfare and setting a lasting legacy for Nigerian sports.

Head coach of the team, Rena Wakama, expressed gratitude to the President for the support, 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 the team’s commitment to national success would remain unwavering. (NAN)

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