Zenith Bank PLC has rewarded players, coaches and members of the backroom staff with the sum of 200,000 naira each for their 2017 Afrobasket success.
At a brief reception held at the corporate headquarters of the bank in Lagos and presided over by the Managing Director, Mr Peter Amangbo, the gesture is part of their efforts to recognize excellence and continue their support for women’s basketball in Nigeria.
He lauded the Sam Vincent led team for bringing the title 12 years after Nigeria last won it.
“We salute your courage and resilience in the face of adversity. Beating the champions of Africa twice and defeating the host in the semi final was not an accident but as a result of hardwork and courage.”
He promised that Zenith bank who has continued to sponsor the women league in the last 12 years will not just stop at rewarding the team after their 2017 Afrobasket win, but will be a strong supporter of the team as they prepare for the 2018 FIBA world cup.
In his response, Vice President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation who responded on behalf of the federation thanked Zenith Bank for their unflinching support for women’s basketball in Nigeria.
According to him, the presence of 3 home based players (Atosu Upe, Akashili Nkechi and Chioma Okoro) is a testimony to te role Zenith Bank has continued to play in basketball development in Nigeria.
He pleaded with Zenith Bank not limit their involvement with the Musa Kida led federation to just sponsorship of the Zenith Women league but should partner with the NBBF in preparing the team for the 2018 world cup in Spain.
“We have booked a ticket to the world cup in Spain. Preparation for this type of tournament is capital intensive. We need your support more than ever to ensure a smooth preparation for the team.”
Captain of the side, Aisha Mohammed thanked Zenith Bank for deeming it fit to reward their hard labour after going 8 matches unbeaten at the championship that was held in Mali.
She assured that the team will try their best to ensure that they bring more honors to the country when they file out against the rest of the world in 2018.
