President Bola Tinubu has extended heartfelt congratulations to Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, following their dramatic 75–68 comeback victory over Senegal, sealing a place in the final of the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket. The win, achieved at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, marks the team’s fifth consecutive appearance in the tournament final and extends their unbeaten run in AfroBasket to 28 games.
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President lauded the team’s fighting spirit and consistency, describing the semi-final clash as “the final before the final.”
“This was more than just a basketball game—it was a battle of pride, history, and determination,” the President said. “Defeating Senegal for the seventh consecutive time, and from behind, shows the grit and heart that define D’Tigress.”
Nigeria, who are defending champions, trailed Senegal by eight points at the start of the fourth quarter but rallied in spectacular fashion, led by standout performances from Ezinne Kalu (19 points) and Victory Macaulay, who gave Nigeria the lead with a clutch hook shot. The reigning champions finished the game strong, outscoring Senegal 10–3 in the final minutes.
President Tinubu also praised head coach Rena Wakama—who made history as the first woman to lead the Nigerian women’s team—commending her vision, leadership, and transition from player to coach.
“Coach Wakama has been an embodiment of inspiration, discipline, and tactical excellence. Her leadership continues to push D’Tigress to new heights on the continental stage,” Tinubu said.
With this victory, D’Tigress not only advanced to the final but also booked a place in the qualifiers for the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup.
President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s full support for the team as they aim for a record fifth consecutive and seventh overall AfroBasket title. Nigeria will now face either South Sudan or Mali in Sunday’s final.
