Kida rallies support for D’Tigress ahead of World Cup

President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), Ahmed Musa Kida, has rallied support from Nigerians as the national female basketball team intensifies preparations for the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup, which is being held in Germany.

Kida’s call come amidst Nigeria’s placement in a Group B alongside France, Hungary, and South Korea, a draw many basketball followers have described as ‘group of death’.

According to the NBBF president, the women’s national basketball team deserves the same nationwide backing, attention and emotional investment often reserved for the country’s football teams.

Kida, who is also the chairman, NNPCL described D’Tigress as one of Nigeria’s most consistent and disciplined national teams, noting that their achievements over the years have brought pride not only to Nigeria but to the African continent.

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He said, “D’Tigress have continued to carry the Nigerian flag with courage, discipline, and determination on the international stage. This is the time for Nigerians everywhere to unite behind them. The same energy, passion, and support we give to football should also be extended to basketball because no national team or sport is superior to another when they are representing the green and white flag.”

He stressed that national pride should transcend sporting divisions, adding that athletes perform better when they feel the strength and encouragement of the people behind them.

“Our athletes need to know that the country believes in them. Support is not only about cheering when they win; it is about standing with them before the competition begins. D’Tigress have earned that respect through years of sacrifice and success,” he added.

He said the team would approach the World Cup with confidence and determination despite the difficult draw, urging Nigerians across the globe to become active supporters of the team’s journey.

“This is a moment for unity and belief. D’Tigress are warriors who have consistently shown that Nigerian teams can compete with the best in the world. We are calling on Nigerians at home and abroad to support these women with the same spirit and commitment they show to our football teams.”

Kida noted that basketball in Nigeria has continued to grow steadily because of the resilience and dedication of the players, insisting that greater public support would further inspire the team ahead of the global showpiece in Germany.

“These players have made history repeatedly for Nigeria and Africa. They deserve encouragement, prayers, and the full backing of the nation.

“We want Nigerians everywhere to proudly identify with this team as they prepare to face some of the world’s strongest basketball nations,” he said.