Toba Owojaiye reporting
Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the First Lady, graciously hosted the Nigerian female national basketball team, known as D’tigress, at an event held in the State House, Abuja.
In a statement released by her media advisor, Bisola Kukoyi, on Monday, Mrs. Tinubu commended the team’s remarkable performance on the basketball court, emphasizing that their success stood as a testament to hard work, discipline, and a strong commitment to excellence.
She expressed her belief that their achievements would serve as an inspiration, particularly for women, encouraging them to pursue their aspirations.
She further remarked, “Your victory goes beyond the realm of sports; it represents the boundless potential that emerges when a diverse group of individuals unite with a shared objective.
“I take immense pride in your accomplishments and the positive image you’ve portrayed for our nation. Your triumph underscores the undeniable fact that Nigerian women possess the capability to attain the highest echelons in any field they choose.”
During the reception, Alhaji Ismaila Abubakar, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, extended gratitude to the First Lady for hosting the team. He assured that the team would diligently prepare for the upcoming 2024 Olympic Games with the aim of securing victory.
The team captain then had the honor of presenting the esteemed FIBA Women’s Afrobasket trophy to the First Lady, as well as to the wife of the vice-president and the wife of the Senate President. The officials from the Basketball Federation also bestowed the First Lady with a medal and a jersey.
This victory marks the D’tigress of Nigeria’s fourth consecutive triumph at the Afrobasket tournament. Following a 12-year hiatus, the team ended their trophy drought in 2017 and has since clinched an impressive four consecutive titles at the tournament.