Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, has congratulated the national women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, on their historic victory at the 2025 FIBA Women’s Afrobasket Championship, where they claimed the title for a record fifth consecutive time.

In a statement released on Monday through her Special Adviser on Media, Nneka Anibeze, the minister praised the team’s outstanding performance in Sunday’s final, where they defeated Mali 78–64 at the Palais de Sports de Treichville in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

Musawa described the victory as “a testament to the team’s dedication, hard work, and exceptional skill,” adding that their triumph not only underscores Nigeria’s growing influence in global sports but also serves as an inspiration for millions of young Nigerians, particularly girls, to pursue excellence through sports.

“I am thrilled to see the D’Tigress bring home the Afrobasket trophy for a record-breaking fifth consecutive time! Their victory is a testament to the power of determination, teamwork, and Nigerian excellence,” Musawa said.

“I congratulate each member of the team, their coaches, and everyone who has supported them on this incredible journey. This achievement will inspire a new generation of Nigerian athletes, and the federal government looks forward to celebrating their triumph upon their return to Nigeria.”

A Nation Celebrates

The D’Tigress’s latest triumph further cements their dominance in African women’s basketball, having previously won the continental title in 2017, 2019, 2021, 2023, and now 2025.

Their back-to-back victories mark a golden era for Nigerian women’s basketball, with global sporting bodies and fans alike acknowledging the team’s technical depth, athleticism, and unrelenting spirit.

Presidential Reception Awaited

According to the ministry, the team will be honoured by President Bola Tinubu at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa in Abuja for their exceptional achievement.

The minister also reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting sports development, particularly through initiatives that empower women in sports, arts, and culture.

D’Tigress’s latest win continues to draw commendations from across the nation, including the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, who lauded their victory as a “monumental moment for Nigerian sports.”

As the team returns home, Nigerians are preparing to celebrate one of the country’s most inspiring and consistent sporting dynasties.