Eniola Bolaji, the bronze medalist from the Paris 2024 Paralympics, has reached the final of the 2026 Para-Badminton World Championship in Bahrain following a decisive semifinal win on Friday, February 13.
The reigning African champion triumphed over China’s Gaoying Yuan in straight sets, 21–12, 21–16, in the women’s SL3 semifinal held at the New Capital Indoor Hall.
Bolaji is set to compete against Japan’s Shino Kawai in the final on February 14, as she seeks to earn her first world title.
The Nigerian athlete has displayed exceptional skill throughout the tournament. She began her journey with a commanding 2–0 (21–13, 21–12) victory against Australia’s Caitlin Dransfield, currently ranked No. 18 in the world. She then followed up with a dominant 2–0 (21–3, 21–7) win over Brazil’s world No. 10, Adriane Ávila.
In the Round of 16, Bolaji easily defeated France’s Milena Surreau 21–13, 21–12, and then overcame Turkey’s world No. 5, Halime Yildiz, in a tough quarterfinal match, winning 21-6, 21-9 to secure her spot in the semifinals.
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On the other hand, Nigeria’s Chigozie Nnanna made history in the men’s SL4 category by winning a bronze medal after losing in the semifinals to India’s world No. 2, Naveen Sivakumar.
With their achievements, Bolaji and Nnanna have become the first African athletes to earn medals at the Para-Badminton World Championship, marking a significant milestone for both Nigeria and the continent.
Bolaji previously made history as the first African to win a para-badminton medal at the Paralympic Games, earning bronze at the 2024 Summer Paralympics.
In response to the athletes’ performances, Francis Orbih, President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, expressed pride in their accomplishments.
“I am thrilled that Eniola Bolaji has reached her second final in two months, and that Chigozie Nnanna has won his first World Championship medal,” Orbih stated.
“There have been intentional and strategic efforts to ensure that more athletes, beyond Bolaji, achieve podium success. I am pleased that this vision is becoming a reality, especially after our successful hosting of the African Para-Badminton Championships in Abia State last year.
“If everything goes according to plan, Bolaji could secure her second gold medal of the year, which would be a significant confidence boost as she continues her journey toward the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics.”
Orbih also praised the National Sports Commission, the Abia State Government, and GIG Logistics for their steadfast support in promoting para-badminton in Nigeria.
