The Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) has released a 17-player preliminary roster for Nigeria’s senior women’s national team, D’Tigress, ahead of the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifiers scheduled for March 11–18, 2026.
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The qualifiers will take place across four host cities — Lyon-Villeurbanne (France), Wushan (China), San Juan (Puerto Rico) and Istanbul (Turkey) — with 24 nations competing for 16 places at the World Cup finals billed for September in Berlin, Germany.
In a statement issued by NBBF media the federation said the selection underscores its determination to assemble a competitive squad capable of maintaining Nigeria’s dominance in Africa while making a strong impact on the global stage.
Award-winning head coach Rena Wakama has called up a blend of experienced internationals and emerging talents. Headlining the list are Ezinne Kalu, Elizabeth Balogun and Promise Amukamara.
Also included in the squad are Pius Beggi Idubano, Nicole Enabosi, Victoria Macaulay, Grace Efosa, Amy Okonkwo,
Murjanatu Musa, Pallas Kunayi, Okoro Ifunaya, Wandoo Hembam, Adenike Olawuyi, Sarah Ogoke, Ayomide Tewogbade, Rita Igbokwe and Blessing Ejiofor.
At the official draw ceremony held in Mies, Switzerland, Nigeria was drawn into a highly competitive Lyon-Villeurbanne group alongside host nation France, Germany, Colombia, South Korea and the Philippines.
D’Tigress head into the qualifiers as one of the four reigning continental champions, alongside Australia, Belgium and the United States.
Nigeria will begin its campaign against Colombia on March 11, before facing South Korea on March 12, the Philippines on March 14, France on March 15 and Germany on March 17, with the top three teams from the group securing qualification.
Buoyed by their recent Afrobasket success and a balanced squad of proven stars and fresh faces, D’Tigress will be aiming to further cement their growing reputation in global women’s basketball.
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