Tinubu, sports minister laud D’Tigress on historic Olympics achievement

President Bola Tinubu has extended his congratulations to Nigeria’s D’Tigress on qualifying for the quarterfinals of the women’s basketball at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

D’Tigress beat Canada by 79-70 in their last Group B match of the Women’s Basketball Tournament at the Paris 2024 Olympics at the Pierre Mauroy Stadium, France.

In a statement issued on Sunday by the president’s Special Adviser on Media & Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, the president commended “the team for their uncommon demonstration of resilience, teamwork and diligence.”

Tinubu also lauded “the coach and managers of the team for their dutifulness and dedication,” as he enjoined “the brave Tigress not to rest on their oars until the final victory is won.”

The statement noted that the president “assures the team and the entire Nigerian contingent at the 2024 Olympics of his support as they fly the nation’s flag at the global sports event.”

Also, the Sports Minister, John Enoh, congratulated D’Tigress for their remarkable victory over Canada.

In a tweet made on X.com, the minister tweeting as #OwanEnoh, described the team’s win as a “groundbreaking accomplishment.”

His tweet partly read, “Dear D’Tigress, today marks a historic achievement. By becoming the first African team (male or female) to reach the Olympic quarterfinals, you have made a groundbreaking accomplishment.

“Despite being ranked 12th, you defeated FIBA’s 3rd and 5th teams, demonstrating exceptional skill. Your success has brought joy to Nigerians everywhere.”

Head coach Rene Wakama’s side won 55-46 in the third quarter before the historic 9-point win.

Enoh further commended Favour Ofili’s impressive qualification for the women’s 200-metre semi-final at the Olympics.

Ofili stormed to a season-best of 22.24 seconds to win heat 6 of the event, thereby booking her place in the semi-finals ahead of Great Britain’s Dina Asher-Smith and Gambia’s Gina Bass-Bittaye.

“We commend you. Ofili Favour Chukwuka, your determination and talent shine bright. Overcoming obstacles, you excelled in the heat. We celebrate your collective triumph and urge you to strive for gold. Continue to excel!” Enoh tweeted.