President Bola Tinubu has lauded Rena Wakama for her outstanding achievement as coach of the D’Tigress women’s basketball team at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Wakama, 32, led Nigeria to a historic quarter-final appearance, marking the first time an African team, male or female, reached that stage in Olympic basketball. Though the team ultimately fell to the United States, their performance earned Wakama the title of Best Women’s Coach from the International Basketball Federation (FIBA).
Presidential spokesman Ajuri Ngelale relayed Tinubu’s praise, stating, “President Tinubu states that the recognition of Ms. Wakama by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), further accents her well-established leadership qualities and dedication to excellence.”
Wakama’s rapid rise is noteworthy, having been appointed as head coach just weeks before the Olympics on June 30th. Her success with the D’Tigress stands out as a bright spot in what was otherwise a disappointing Olympics for Nigeria, with the country failing to secure any medals.
Despite the lack of podium finishes, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of the athletes’ efforts, saying, “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.”
The president encouraged the team and Wakama to remain resilient, viewing their historic achievement as a stepping stone for future success.
