January 26, 2025
By Yinka Olaniyi
Another Yoruba daughter, Eniola Bolaji, has made history once again, winning a gold medal at the 2025 Egypt Para-Badminton International. Bolaji, a Paralympic bronze medalist, dominated the women’s SL3 final, defeating Sweden’s Hillevi Salomonsson 2-0 (21-1, 21-2) on Sunday.
Throughout the tournament, Bolaji showcased her skills, securing straight-set victories against Shahinda Mohamed (21-7, 21-2), Basma Nabil-Fawzy (21-6, 21-4), and Elizabeth Puma (21-2, 21-4) in earlier rounds.
According to the Badminton World Federation, Bolaji has participated in 10 international championships over the last two years, winning them all – a remarkable achievement that establishes her as a formidable competitor in Para-Badminton.
Francis Orbih, President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, celebrated Bolaji’s accomplishment, saying: “Eniola Bolaji’s gold medal at the Egypt International 2025 is a testament to her unparalleled talent and dedication.
“As the first and only African medalist in Para-Badminton at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, she has once again brought immense pride to Nigeria.
“Winning 10 consecutive international tournaments is no small feat; she is a national treasure and a global icon.”
Orbih added that Bolaji’s success serves as a beacon of hope for both Para-Badminton and badminton in Nigeria, inspiring young athletes to aim for excellence in 2025.
He reaffirmed the Federation’s commitment to hosting world-class events, saying: “The Badminton Federation of Nigeria, in collaboration with Abia State, is determined to deliver a successful Para Badminton International Championship and the All-Africa Para Badminton Championship. We are fully committed to meeting and exceeding international standards.”
