Basketball

Air Warriors Chairman Solademi Hails D’Tigress Win, Plans Women’s Basketball Initiative in Ogbomoso

Published

2 months ago

August 4, 2025

By Joel Ajayi

Chairman of Air Warriors Basketball Club, Abuja, AbdulMajid Oladimeji Solademi, has hailed D’Tigress for their historic fifth consecutive FIBA AfroBasket Women’s Championship title, following their emphatic 75–64 win over Mali in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

In a statement shared with journalists in Abuja, Solademi expressed immense pride in the national team’s accomplishment.

“Huge congratulations to D’Tigress on clinching their fifth AfroBasket title—that’s truly phenomenal!” he said. “As a passionate basketball supporter and a promoter of women’s basketball, I couldn’t be more thrilled!”

Inspired by the team’s success, Solademi announced plans to establish a female basketball team in his hometown of Ogbomoso, Oyo State, aimed at harnessing local talent and deepening the game’s roots at the grassroots level.

“It’s time to bring basketball development back home,” he declared. “We want to discover and nurture more stars like Murjanatu Musa from Ogbomoso. The talent is there—we just need to provide the right platform.”

Solademi reserved special praise for D’Tigress forward and former Air Warriors standout Murjanatu Liman Musa, commending her performance in the final despite fouling out early in the fourth quarter.

“I’m bursting with pride! Murjanatu’s nine points and four rebounds were key contributions. She’s shown she belongs at the top and has so much more to give on the global stage.”

He also lauded head coach Rena Wakama and the entire D’Tigress squad for their unity, determination, and winning spirit.

“Coach Wakama and the team—take a bow! You’ve made every Nigerian proud.”

Turning the spotlight on his own team, Solademi urged the Air Warriors to draw inspiration from the national team’s triumph.

“To my players—let’s channel this energy! We can make our mark, too. Let’s stay focused, work hard, and push for greatness.”

Fresh from organizing a successful grassroots football tournament in Ogbomoso, Solademi reaffirmed his commitment to youth empowerment through sports.

“From football to basketball, our mission is the same—building opportunities and hope for young talents across Nigeria.”

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Basketball

Nigeria @ 65: Igoche Mark Pays Homage to Nigerian Athletes for Contributions

Published

5 days ago

October 1, 2025

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence anniversary on Wednesday October 1, Basketball Promoter and Initiator of Mark D’ Ball Basketball Championship, Mr. Igoche Mark, has commended the country’s athletes for their outstanding contributions.

In a heartfelt message, Mr. Mark praised active and retired athletes for consistently putting Nigeria on the global map through their dedication, hard work, and achievements. “Your dedication, hard work, and achievements have not only brought us pride but have also inspired a generation of Nigerians,” he stated.

The Sports Administrator urged the National Sports Commission to establish a platform to celebrate these athletes and recognize their invaluable contributions to Nigerian sports. He emphasized the need to honour their legacy and provide a framework for their continued involvement in sports after retirement.

To support athletes in transition, Mr. Mark recommended that “retirement plans be implemented to ensure a seamless transition into life after sports. This would enable athletes to plan for their future and maximize their post-athletic careers.”

Furthermore, he proposed a welfare package for retired athletes, including access to healthcare, education, and economic empowerment programs. “By doing so, we can show our appreciation for their service and ensure that they are taken care of,” Mr. Mark added.

As Nigeria celebrates its 65th Independence anniversary on October 1, with the theme “Nigeria @ 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation,” Mr. Mark’s sentiments echo the sentiments of many Nigerians who believe in the importance of recognizing and supporting the country’s athletes.

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