Abuja, Aug. 14 — The Federal Government has congratulated Nigeria’s men’s basketball team, D’Tigers, on their emphatic 77–59 victory over Madagascar in their opening game at the 2025 AfroBasket tournament in Luanda, Angola.

In a statement issued Thursday by the National Sports Commission (NSC) and signed by its Director for Information & PR, Mrs. Kehinde Ajayi, NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko praised the team’s skill, dedication, and determination.

Dikko recalled his visit to the team’s camp before departure, when the players pledged to return with the trophy. “In this match, I saw the commitment, meaning that you have truly matched words with action,” he said. “Your quality has never been in doubt. And in this form, it will take something extra to stop you.”

He urged the squad to remain focused as they face tougher opponents in the tournament. “Keep your eyes on the goal. Opponents will come out with greater force, but with your characteristic never-say-die Nigerian spirit, I am sure you will weather all storms,” he added, drawing parallels to the recent triumph of Nigeria’s women’s team, D’Tigress, at the Women’s AfroBasket.

Presidential Backing

The NSC Chairman also conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s full support, linking the team’s quest for glory to the government’s “Renewed Hope and Shared Prosperity” agenda.
“Mr. President is expecting to get his hands on another trophy from you. The whole nation is solidly behind you,” Dikko assured.

NSC Director-General Bukola Olopade echoed the sentiment, urging the team to remain resolute. “Surely the harder the opposition comes in the course of the tournament, the harder they will fall. Just stay focused and never look back,” he said.

D’Tigers’ next fixture will see them battle for a place at the top of their group as the competition intensifies in Angola.