FG Charges D’Tigress To Retain Afrobasket Title

As the 2023 AfroBasket FIBA Women’s Competition unfolds in Kigali, Rwanda, the Federal Government has rallied behind the Nigerian women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, urging them to maintain their impressive performance and secure victory in the tournament.

D’Tigress exhibited their dominance by defeating Egypt 83-65 in their second Group D match on Sunday.

Ismaila Abubakar, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Sports and Youth Development, conveyed his heartfelt congratulations and praised the team’s stellar performance since the beginning of the championship.

“We want to remind you that we are closely monitoring your exceptional performances in all the events our athletes participate in. So far, you are doing great. We are proud of you and want you to continue giving your all to maintain the lead and raise our nation’s flag high with podium finishes. We stand firmly behind you and commend you for making the country proud. Keep up the momentum,” he stated.

The Permanent Secretary also lauded the officials of the ministry, the Nigeria Basketball Federation and the team’s technical crew for their unwavering commitment in realising the government’s sporting initiatives, policies and programmes, all aimed at the empowerment and advancement of Nigerian youths through sports.

Ismaila expressed confidence that with the determination and skills displayed by the team at the competition, they were destined to clinch the prestigious trophy for a record equalling fourth consecutive time.

D’Tigress demonstrated their prowess by securing comfortable victories against DR Congo and Egypt in the first and second quarters, ultimately securing a spot in the quarterfinal stage of the 2023 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket tournament.

The triumph against Egypt marked the third consecutive win for Nigeria over the North African team, having previously defeated them in 2015 and 2017. Notably, D’Tigress have triumphed in five continental championships, including the last three women’s AfroBasket competitions.