Pius Ayinor
The Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) on Saturday, March 7, announced a landmark strategic partnership with XE Jet, naming the aviation company the Official Aviation Partner of Nigeria’s Senior Women’s National Basketball Team, D’Tigress.
The NBBF statement this morning gives details of the deal.
“The partnership represents one of the most significant aviation collaborations in African basketball and marks a major step in strengthening the commercial and operational foundation supporting Nigeria’s women’s national basketball team — widely recognized as the most dominant women’s basketball team in Africa.”
Under the agreement, XE Jet will provide dedicated aviation and travel logistics support for the national team, ensuring D’Tigress travel with the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and comfort as they represent Nigeria in international competitions.
“The announcement follows the resolutions of the NBBF Board Meeting held on March 1, 2026, in Lagos, where the Federation reaffirmed its commitment to expanding strategic commercial partnerships and strengthening the institutional framework supporting national teams and grassroots basketball development across the country.”
“The Federation also acknowledged the continued support and collaboration of the National Sports Commission (NSC) under the leadership of Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade, whose commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s sports ecosystem continues to play an important role in supporting national teams and elevating Nigeria’s global sporting profile.”
The Board further reiterated its strong focus on the successful participation of D’Tigress in upcoming international competitions, including the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup Qualifiers scheduled for March 11 to 17, 2026 in Lyon, France.
President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation, Engr. Ahmadu Musa Kida welcomed the partnership as a major milestone for Nigerian basketball.
“D’Tigress continue to inspire the nation through their excellence, discipline, and achievements on the global stage. This partnership with XE Jet reflects the growing confidence of corporate Nigeria in our women’s national team and reinforces our commitment to providing our athletes with the support they deserve.”
CEO of XE Jet, Emmanuel Iza, emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting Nigerian excellence and advancing women’s sport.
“XE Jet is proud to stand alongside D’Tigress as they continue to carry the Nigerian flag with pride across the world. Supporting these remarkable athletes aligns with our belief in excellence, leadership, and the power of sport to inspire future generations.”
Over the past decade, D’Tigress have emerged as a global force in women’s basketball, winning multiple African championships and elevating Nigeria’s international reputation in the sport.
To celebrate the partnership and the team’s participation in the World Cup Qualifiers, XE Jet will host an exclusive Women in Sports Leadership Reception in Lyon, bringing together leaders from sport, government, diplomacy, and business to support the advancement of women’s basketball and strengthen international collaboration around African sport.
The reception will also recognize the achievements of the players and the broader leadership community supporting women’s sport in Africa.
The statement adds, “The Nigeria Basketball Federation remains committed to building strong commercial partnerships that strengthen the basketball ecosystem, empower athletes, and position Nigeria as a leading force in global basketball.”
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