Nigerian para-badminton star and Paralympic bronze medallist, Eniola Bolaji, has reaffirmed her dominance in the SL3 category by securing her 12th career gold medal at the 2025 Spanish Para Badminton International. Bolaji defeated Turkey’s Halime Yildiz in a commanding 2-0 (21-7, 21-10) victory in the women’s singles final held in Toledo, Spain.
Bolaji’s path to the title was marked by a series of impressive performances. She began her campaign with a straight-sets victory over India’s Sanjana Kumari, winning 21-15, 21-8 in the second round. She then faced Yildiz again in the third round, defeating the Turkish player 21-9, 21-12. In the semi-finals, the African champion showcased her superiority with a dominant 2-0 (21-16, 21-4) win over Ukraine’s Oksana Kozyba to book her place in the final.
Following her remarkable achievement, the President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Francis Orbih, praised Bolaji’s resilience and consistency. In a statement, Orbih highlighted her historic feat as the only African para-badminton player to win 12 gold medals in international competitions.
“I extend heartfelt congratulations to Eniola Bolaji on winning her 12th gold medal in as many international tournaments,” Orbih said. “This feat is a testament to her consistency, resilience, and unwavering dedication to excellence. Bolaji has made Nigeria proud and firmly stamped her authority on global para-badminton with her relentless spirit.”
Orbih also expressed excitement about Nigeria hosting the upcoming All African Para Badminton Championships later in 2025 in Abia State. He described the event as an opportunity to showcase the country’s vibrant badminton culture and provide a platform for future champions.
“We thank the Abia State Government for accepting to host this historic event,” Orbih stated. “It gladdens me that African para-badminton giants will gather in Nigeria for an international and continental championship. It will be an avenue to expose future champions and promote our athletes to the world.”
With another gold medal added to her collection, Bolaji continues to inspire athletes across the continent while strengthening her legacy as Africa’s most decorated para-badminton player.