Tinubu hails Rena Wakama, D’Tigress, Nigerian Athletes despite medal-less Paris Olympic games outing

President Bola Tinubu has commended Rena Wakama for her outstanding leadership as the coach of Nigeria’s D’Tigress, following their historic performance in the women’s Olympic Basketball Tournament.

Under Wakama’s guidance, D’Tigress achieved a groundbreaking milestone by becoming the first African basketball team, male or female, to advance to the quarter-finals of the Olympic Games.

In a statement released by Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, President Tinubu praised Wakama’s exceptional leadership qualities and her unwavering commitment to excellence, which were instrumental in the team’s unprecedented success.

The President also extended his congratulations to the entire D’Tigress team and everyone involved in this historic achievement. He encouraged them to continue demonstrating resilience and determination as they aim for even greater accomplishments in the future.

While acknowledging that winning medals and trophies is a significant goal in competitive sports, President Tinubu emphasised the importance of good sportsmanship, discipline, and the sacrifices made by the Nigerian athletes. He expressed gratitude to Team Nigeria, wishing them success in their future endeavors despite not securing medals at the Paris Games.

The statement said, “President Tinubu states that the recognition of Ms. Wakama, 32, by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), further accents her well-established leadership qualities and dedication to excellence.

“The President commends the team, the coach, and all those who played a part in the unprecedented feat at the Olympics, enjoining them not to relent or become crestfallen but remain resilient and determined for greatness.

“President Tinubu affirms that winning trophies and medals is the ultimate goal in competitive sports, but nothing trumps the place of good sportsmanship, discipline, and sacrifice shown by all those who held the Nigerian flag at the Olympic Games.”

“Winning trophies and medals is the ultimate goal in competitive sports, but nothing trumps the place of good sportsmanship, discipline, and sacrifice shown by all those who held the Nigerian flag at the Olympic Games.”