World number two SL3 para-badminton player and Paralympic bronze medalist Eniola Bolaji has departed Nigeria for the Para-Badminton World Championship in Bahrain, alongside fellow national representatives Chigozie Jeremiah and Chinyere Okoro.
The championship runs from February 8 to 14, with Nigeria fielding three athletes across different classifications.
Bolaji, Africa’s top-ranked para-badminton player, heads into the tournament in strong form, marking her second international appearance of the year after a dominant showing at the Egypt International Championship in January, where she won gold.
Nigeria will also be represented by Chigozie Jeremiah, a 2024 Paralympian competing in the men’s SL4 category, while Chinyere Okoro will feature in the women’s SL4 event as Nigeria’s sole entrant in that classification.
Confidence from the Federation
Speaking after the team’s departure, President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN), Francis Orbih, expressed confidence in the athletes’ readiness, revealing they had undergone a month-long intensive training camp in Abuja.
“Nigeria’s para-badminton players are once again ready to represent the country on the world stage,” Orbih said.
“The athletes have shown great dedication and commitment during the camping exercise in Abuja.”
He highlighted Bolaji’s current form as a major boost to Nigeria’s medal hopes.
“Eniola Bolaji is currently in the best form of her career after her victory at the Egypt International Championship, while Chigozie Jeremiah and Chinyere Okoro are well prepared and motivated to win laurels for the nation.”
Orbih also acknowledged the support of the National Sports Commission and corporate partners, praising their role in ensuring Nigeria’s continued participation in key international ranking tournaments.
Bolaji Riding High After Egypt Gold
Bolaji arrives in Bahrain full of confidence after her gold medal performance at the Egypt International Para-Badminton Championship, held on January 18 at the New Capital Indoor Hall in Cairo.
She capped a flawless campaign with a commanding 2–0 (21–10, 21–4) victory over world No. 7 Halime Yildiz of Turkey in the final. Her run included straight-game wins over Yildiz in the opening round, as well as victories against Tulika Jadgave, Manasi Girishchandra Joshi, and Shivam Yadav Neeraj in the semi-finals.
Reflecting on her performance, Orbih praised her consistency:
“I am excited that Eniola Bolaji was able to compete at the Egypt Para-Badminton International and win gold once again.
I strongly believe Bolaji will have an exciting year ahead and will continue to bring pride to Nigeria and the Federation.”
With momentum on their side, Nigeria’s para-badminton contingent will be aiming to make a strong impact in Bahrain and further cement the country’s growing presence on the global para-sports stage.
