By Ohuakanwa Chibuzo
President Bola Tinubu has extended his congratulations to Rena Wakama, the coach of Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, following her recognition as the best coach of women’s basketball at the Paris 2024 Olympics. The accolade, awarded by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), underscores Wakama’s leadership qualities and commitment to excellence, according to President Tinubu.
The announcement was made in a statement released on Monday, August 12, by Ajuri Ngelale, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity. In the statement, President Tinubu praised Wakama for her role in leading D’Tigress to a historic performance at the Olympics, where they became the first African basketball team to reach the quarter-finals.
“President Bola Tinubu congratulates Ms. Rena Wakama, D’Tigress’ coach, on her recognition as the best coach of women’s basketball at the Paris 2024 Olympics,” the statement read. “The Nigeria women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, put up a spectacular performance at the Olympics, becoming the first African basketball team to play in the quarter-finals at the Olympic Games.”
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The President noted that Wakama’s recognition by FIBA is a testament to her strong leadership and unwavering dedication to achieving excellence. He also commended the entire team, as well as all those who contributed to their groundbreaking achievement at the Olympics.
President Tinubu urged the team and its supporters to remain resilient and determined in their pursuit of greatness, emphasizing that while winning trophies and medals is important, the values of sportsmanship, discipline, and sacrifice are paramount.
In closing, the President expressed his gratitude to the Nigerian contingent at the Olympics and wished them continued success in their future endeavors.
