Eniola Bolaji, the Paralympic bronze medalist, has etched her name further into the annals of para-badminton history by clinching a gold medal at the 2025 Spanish Para Badminton International II in Vitoria. This victory not only underscores her exceptional talent but also extends her awe-inspiring winning streak to an unprecedented 11 consecutive international tournaments. Bolaji’s dominance in the women’s singles SL3 category was on full display as she navigated the tournament with remarkable precision and power, leaving her opponents in her wake without dropping a single set. In the final, she faced a formidable opponent in Ukraine’s Oksana Kozyba, but Bolaji’s unwavering resolve and masterful gameplay proved too much to overcome. She secured the gold medal with a decisive 2-0 (21-15, 21-15) victory, solidifying her position as a leading force in the world of para-badminton.
Bolaji’s journey to the gold medal was paved with convincing victories over a diverse field of international competitors. From the outset, she demonstrated her intent, dispatching Brazil’s Kauana Michelson Beckenka with a resounding 2-0 (21-15, 21-2) win. Her momentum continued against France’s Caroline Bergeron, whom she defeated with an equally emphatic 2-0 (21-7, 21-8) scoreline in the group stage. In the quarterfinals, she faced Australia’s Celine Vinot, but Bolaji’s relentless attack and tactical prowess proved too difficult to counter, resulting in a 2-0 (21-8, 21-12) victory. The semifinal clash against India’s Neeraj was another demonstration of Bolaji’s dominance, culminating in a commanding 2-0 (21-12, 21-6) win that propelled her into the final. Each match showcased her exceptional athleticism, strategic thinking, and unwavering determination.
Francis Orbih, the President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, lauded Bolaji’s remarkable achievement, highlighting the significance of her second gold medal in just two months. He emphasized that Bolaji’s success serves as a testament to her unwavering dedication and rapidly rising prominence on the global para-badminton stage. Orbih reiterated the Federation’s commitment to investing in Bolaji and other para-badminton players, recognizing their potential to achieve even greater success on the international stage. He viewed Bolaji’s victory as a reflection of the concerted efforts and resources being channeled into developing para-badminton in Nigeria.
Orbih’s statement also underscores a broader vision for the future of Nigerian para-badminton. He expressed confidence that Bolaji’s victory is just the beginning of a new era of success for the sport in Nigeria. The Federation’s focus is firmly fixed on ensuring that more Nigerian athletes qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and Paralympics, effectively cementing Nigeria’s place amongst the world’s para-badminton powerhouses. This commitment to long-term development is further underscored by Orbih’s acknowledgement of the National Sports Commission’s timely intervention, which has played a crucial role in fostering the growth of the federation. He believes that the support and encouragement from the Commission signify a positive shift in the landscape of sports development in Nigeria.
Bolaji’s individual success was also part of a larger Nigerian representation at the Spanish Para Badminton International II. A five-member contingent, including Okoro Chinyere Lucky, Chukwuemeka Ijeoma Gift, Eze Chukwuebuka Sunday, and Nnanna Chigozie Jeremiah, joined Bolaji in Vitoria, each competing in their respective singles categories. This broader participation highlights the growing strength and depth of Nigerian para-badminton. The tournament served as a valuable platform for these athletes to gain international experience and showcase their talents on the global stage.
Following the conclusion of the tournament in Vitoria, three of the Nigerian athletes – Bolaji, Jeremiah, and Eze – will continue their international campaign by traveling to Toledo, Madrid for the prestigious Spanish International Level 1 Para Badminton Championship. This higher-level competition will provide another opportunity for these athletes to test their skills against some of the world’s best para-badminton players. Their participation in this elite tournament underscores the Badminton Federation of Nigeria’s commitment to providing its athletes with opportunities to compete at the highest level and further enhance their development. The experience gained in Toledo will undoubtedly be invaluable as they continue their journey towards future international competitions, including the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics.
