By The New Diplomat Sports Desk
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has applauded the coach of Nigeria’s female basketball team, D’Tigress, Rena Wakama for her stellar and outstanding performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Tinubu showered praises on Wakama as she bagged the best women’s coach prize at the just-concluded 2024 Paris Olympics.
Tinubu, in a statement issued by his media aide, Ajuri Ngelale, described the award as a testament to the excellence and the leadership qualities of Wakama.
The statement reads in part: “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 to 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,” he said.
“The President thanks the Nigerian contingent and wishes them success in their respective endeavours.”
The New Diplomat reports that Wakama led the Nigerian side to a historic quarter-final outing, becoming the first African team to do so, both male/female, at the Olympics.
However, the D’Tigress bowed out of the tournament gallantly to the USA team.
