Nigerian Paralympic bronze medalist Eniola Bolaji has once again demonstrated her brilliance, claiming gold at the Egypt Para Badminton International 2025 in a stunning display of dominance. Bolaji delivered a flawless performance in the women’s SL3 final, defeating Sweden’s Hillevi Salomonsson in straight sets, 21-1, 21-2, on Sunday.
Bolaji, who is already celebrated as Africa’s Para Badminton champion, showcased her mastery throughout the tournament. She cruised past opponents including Shahinda Mohamed (21-7, 21-2), Basma Nabil-Fawzy (21-6, 21-4), and Elizabeth Puma (21-2, 21-4), asserting her supremacy with commanding straight-set victories.
According to the Badminton World Federation, Bolaji has competed in 10 international championships over the last two years and has emerged victorious in all—a stunning achievement that cements her status as one of the world’s top Para Badminton athletes.
Read Also: CAF excludes Super Eagles from top 5 list to win AFCON
Speaking to The Trumpet in a phone interview, Francis Orbih, President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, lauded Bolaji’s historic win, describing it as a moment of immense pride for Nigerian sports.
“Eniola Bolaji’s gold medal at the Egypt Para Badminton International 2025 is a testament to her unparalleled talent, discipline, and dedication. As the first and only African medalist in Para Badminton at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, she continues to make Nigeria proud. Winning 10 consecutive international tournaments is an extraordinary accomplishment that positions her as a national treasure and a global icon,” Orbih stated.
Orbih also highlighted the significance of Bolaji’s achievement in inspiring other athletes and reaffirmed the Federation’s commitment to advancing the sport. He emphasized plans to host world-class events later this year, including the Para Badminton International Championship and the All Africa Para Badminton Championship, both scheduled to take place in Abia State.
“We are committed to ensuring that the upcoming championships meet and surpass global standards,” Orbih added, pledging to use these events to further elevate Para Badminton and Badminton in Nigeria.
Bolaji’s victory not only signals a golden start to 2025 but also reinforces her position as a trailblazer in Nigerian and African sports. Her continued success inspires a new generation of athletes and serves as a powerful reminder of the heights achievable through determination and hard work.
