Best Odds Center
best odds centre button
Click here!
Sport TV
watch live tv button
Click here!
to watch
Live FootBall
NPFL
Click here!
Live Scores
play watch Live Score button
Click here!

Para Badminton: BFN Backs Bolaji for World No. 1 Return After Dublin Silver

Posted : 29 June 2026

Nigeria's Badminton Federation has expressed confidence that Eniola Bolaji will soon reclaim her place at the top of world para badminton after the Nigerian settled for silver at the 2026 British & Irish Para Badminton International in Dublin.

Bolaji, a Paralympic bronze medallist and World Championship silver medallist, finished second in the SL3 women's singles after losing 21-18, 23-21 to Japan's Shino Kawai in a closely contested final at the Sport Ireland National Indoor Arena on Sunday.

The Nigerian star reached the final in impressive fashion, opening her campaign with straight-set victories over India's Neeraj (21-15, 21-3) and France's Milena Surreau (21-19, 21-13) in the group stage.

She maintained her dominance in the knockout rounds, defeating Türkiye's Halime Yildiz 21-16, 21-7 in the quarter-finals before overwhelming Australia's Celine Vinot 21-7, 21-9 in the semi-finals.

Following the competition, Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN) President Francis Orbih praised Bolaji's performance and revealed plans to organise a three-month overseas training programme to help her bridge the gap with Kawai, who recently replaced her as world No. 1.

"It was a fantastic performance, and I am very happy with what Eniola achieved. I am motivated to intensify efforts to ensure she trains outside the country because it is only a matter of time before she starts beating the Japanese player, Shino Kawai," Orbih said.

"I have congratulated her for setting the tone once again, and we are looking forward to arranging a three-month training tour abroad to further improve her game."

Orbih also acknowledged the support of the National Sports Commission (NSC), the Badminton Confederation Africa (BCA), Yonex, and GIG Logistics, expressing optimism that sustained backing and increased international exposure will enable Bolaji to challenge consistently for major global titles.

The federation believes the planned overseas training programme will provide Bolaji with the experience and competitive edge needed to return to the top of the world rankings and strengthen Nigeria's presence on the international para badminton stage.

 

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics

close button
Please fill captcha :