President Bola Tinubu has commended Rena Wakama, the coach of Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, for her remarkable performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Under Wakama’s leadership, D’Tigress made history by becoming the first African team—male or female—to reach the quarter-finals of the Olympic basketball tournament. The team’s valiant effort saw them bow out to the U.S. in the quarter-finals, but their performance earned Wakama the prestigious Best Women’s Coach award, a recognition President Tinubu described as well-deserved.
In a statement released on Monday by presidential spokesman Ajuri Ngelale, Tinubu praised Wakama’s leadership and dedication to excellence. “The recognition of Ms. Wakama, 32, by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), further highlights her well-established leadership qualities and commitment to excellence,” the President said.
President Tinubu also extended his commendations to the entire D’Tigress team and all those who contributed to their unprecedented achievement at the Olympics. He urged them to remain resilient and determined, despite not securing a medal in the competition, which marked one of Nigeria’s most challenging outings at the Olympics.
“Winning trophies and medals is the ultimate goal in competitive sports, but nothing surpasses the value of good sportsmanship, discipline, and sacrifice displayed by all who represented Nigeria at the Olympic Games,” Tinubu remarked.
The President concluded by thanking the Nigerian athletes for their sacrifices and wishing them continued success in their careers.
