The Federal Government has carried out its promise to reward Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, after their victory at the 2025 Women’s AfroBasket tournament.
The development was made known on Monday, March 16, 2026, when the National Sports Commission confirmed that housing documents meant for the players had been handed over to the team in Lyon.
The presentation was done by the commission’s chairman, Shehu Dikko, alongside the Director General, Bukola Olopade.
The reward had earlier been announced by President Bola Tinubu on August 4, 2025, shortly after the team defended their African title. At the time, each player was promised 100,000 dollars, while members of the coaching crew were to receive 50,000 dollars each.
Beyond the cash reward, the government also approved a three-bedroom apartment for every member of the team under the Renewed Hope Estate housing plan. Both players and officials were also honoured with the national award of Officer of the Order of the Niger.
Those who received the housing papers include Amy Okonkwo, Pallas Kunaiyi-Akpannah, Elizabeth Balogun, Sarah Ogoke, Ifunanya Okoro, Promise Amukamara, Murjanatu Musa, Blessing Ejiofor, Ezinne Kalu, Victoria Macaulay and Nicole Enabosi.
Vera Ojenuwa, who was part of the winning squad, was absent at the event as she is no longer on the current tournament list. She is expected to receive her package later.
Members of the technical crew who were also recognised include head coach Rena Wakama, as well as assistants Wani Muganguzi and Prince Ezeala.
During the ceremony, team captain Amy Okonkwo appreciated the government and Nigerians for their support and said the team remains ready to keep representing the country well in future competitions. She also showed gratitude for the rewards and national recognition given to the team.
Coach Rena Wakama also praised the sports authorities for their support and said the team is focused on achieving more success going forward.
The event took place as the African champions continue their campaign in the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup qualifiers in Lyon.
Nigeria opened the tournament with a strong 70–37 win over Colombia but later lost 77–60 to South Korea. The team bounced back with a 101–84 victory against the Philippines before falling 93–86 to France.
They are expected to play their final match against Germany on Tuesday. Although they have already secured qualification for the World Cup by winning the AfroBasket title, the remaining matches are being used to prepare for the main tournament later in the year.
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