The Nigeria Women's basketball team, D'Tigress, have reacted to President Muhammadu Buhari's approval to withdraw Nigeria from all international basketball competitions.
We reported that Sunday Dare, Minister of Youth and Sports Development, had announced that the withdrawal will last two years.
Dare said the development would allow the government to concentrate on efforts to revamp the sport.
But reacting, D'Tigress in a statement on its official Twitter page, while disagreeing with the ban, appealed for a reversal.
The players said they would like to be given the opportunity to represent Nigeria because the ban is taking away all their future competitions, accomplishments, and goals to elevate, inspire, and make Nigeria proud!
"We would like to be given the opportunity to play for our country that we passionately love to represent in this upcoming competition.
"We have worked very hard to be 3x Afrobasket Champions, Olympians and now we are blessed with another opportunity to continue that representation for Nigeria.
"We want Nigerian Basketball to continue to grow and succeed on every level; from the local leagues, grassroots and even on the international stage!
The players said they believe that all levels of Nigerian basketball can excel with the proper attention, togetherness, and organization.
"Our team is a testament to how successful Nigerian Basketball can be and how we have been an inspiration to all Nigerian athletes across the globe.
The players thanked their coaches, medical staff, organizers, and fans and noted that the ban not only penalizes them but Nigerians all as well.
They added that their goal is to play and represent Nigeria proudly.
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