The Publisher of foremost sports platform, Herosports Africa, Mr. Sheriff Owolabi Bada, has showered praises on the nation’s two most celebrated women’s teams — the Super Falcons and D’Tigress — following their recent string of victories on the African continent and international stage.
Bada, a respected journalist and sports Publisher with over a decade of experience in grassroots and professional sports reporting, described the achievements of the two teams as “a clear testimony of Nigeria’s dominance in women’s sports globally.”
In his statement, Bada said: “The Super Falcons and D’Tigress have once again proven that Nigerian women are a force to reckon with in global sports. These wins are not just victories for the teams but for every Nigerian who believes in hard work, resilience, and unity. They have inspired a new generation of female athletes who now see endless possibilities.”
Mr. Bada, through Herosports Africa has consistently advocated for equal recognition for female athletes, highlighting their achievements and pushing for better funding for women’s teams. He reiterated that the latest triumphs should compel government agencies and private sponsors to increase investment in women’s football and basketball.
“D’Tigress have won six straight Afrobasket titles, and the Falcons remain undisputed champions of African football. Yet, they still face inadequate funding and recognition compared to their male counterparts. This must change,” Bada stressed.
The Super Falcons, Africa’s most successful women’s football team, recently booked their ticket to the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after defeating Cape Verde with an aggregate scoreline of 7-1 in the qualifiers. Led by coach Randy Waldrum, the nine-time African champions have continued to dominate the continent, while also impressing on the global stage with their outstanding 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup performance, where they reached the Round of 16.
Their star players, including Asisat Oshoala, Onome Ebi, and Rasheedat Ajibade, have continued to fly Nigeria’s flag high in international leagues, making them role models for young footballers across the country.
On the other hand, the Nigerian women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, etched their name in history by winning their sixth consecutive Afrobasket title, defeating Senegal in a thrilling final in Kigali, Rwanda. Coached by Rena Wakama, the team showcased tactical brilliance and resilience, extending their unbeaten record in African women’s basketball.
This victory cements Nigeria’s dominance in the sport, as D’Tigress remain Africa’s highest-ranked women’s basketball team, currently positioned 11th globally by FIBA. Players like Amy Okonkwo, Sarah Ogoke, and Promise Amukamara were instrumental in this feat.
Bada emphasized that the victories of both teams come at a time when Nigeria needs positive news to unite its people. He said:
“Sports is one of the few things that bring Nigerians together, regardless of ethnicity or religion. The Falcons and D’Tigress have given us reasons to celebrate, and this should inspire government and corporate bodies to do more for sports development.”
He also called on state governments, sports federations, and private companies to adopt policies that will enhance grassroots talent discovery to ensure that Nigeria continues to produce world-class female athletes.
Bada urged the Federal Ministry of Sports and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to prioritize the welfare of female athletes. He highlighted the recurring issues of unpaid bonuses and poor preparation, which often threaten to derail the teams’ morale.
“We cannot afford to keep celebrating these victories without addressing the structural problems. If these women can achieve greatness under such difficult conditions, imagine what they could do with adequate support,” he noted.
As the Super Falcons prepare for the upcoming WAFCON tournament, and D’Tigress set their sights on qualifying for the Olympics, Bada expressed optimism that both teams will continue to bring glory to the nation.
He concluded by dedicating his congratulatory message to all Nigerian women in sports, stating:
“The triumph of our female teams shows that with determination, the girl-child can achieve anything. These athletes are not just champions; they are symbols of hope.”