Chairman of XE Jet, Emmanuel Iza, has explained that the aviation services company entered into a strategic partnership with the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) because of his company’s commitment to supporting Nigerian excellence, promoting women’s sports and contributing to the growth of national pride through sporting achievements.

Iza made the explanation at the weekend just as the national women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, arrived in Lyon, France to begin their final preparation for the Women’s Basketball World Cup qualifiers billed to hold in the French city.

The African champions arrived in the French city yesterday for the qualifying tournament scheduled to run from March 11 to March 15.

The team will face a challenging schedule in the round-robin competition, where they are set to take on Colombia, South Korea, Philippines, and host nation, France.

The tournament forms part of the global qualification pathway organised by FIBA, where national teams battle for places at the next edition of the Women’s World Cup.

The D’Tigress, who have dominated African women’s basketball in recent years, will be aiming to secure a ticket to the global showpiece by delivering strong performances against international opposition.

The Nigerian side is expected to begin training sessions in Lyon immediately as the technical crew fine-tunes tactics and squad fitness ahead of their opening game on March 11.

XE Jet partnership with the NBBF includes providing the D’Tigress with aviation and travel logistics support.

Iza said that the collaboration would ensure that the team enjoys seamless travel arrangements, high safety standards and comfort as it represents Nigeria in global competitions.

“XE Jet is honoured to stand beside D’Tigress as they continue to inspire millions of Nigerians and represent the country with distinction across the world.

“We believe strongly in the power of sport to elevate national pride, empower women and create opportunities for future generations.”

Also commenting on the partnership, NBBF President, Musa Kida, described the gesture as a significant boost for Nigerian basketball, noting that it reflects growing confidence by corporate organisations in the country’s sporting sector.

He explained that D’Tigress had consistently demonstrated excellence and resilience on the global stage, stressing that this partnership with XE Jet has reinforced the federation’s commitment to providing its athletes with the support they needed to succeed internationally.

To further promote women’s sports and celebrate Nigerian excellence, XE Jet would also host a Women in Sports Leadership Reception in Lyon during the tournament, bringing together leaders from sports, diplomacy and business to advance collaboration around African sport.