Nigeria’s para-badminton contingent delivered a memorable outing at the BWF Para-Badminton World Championships 2026, as Mariam Eniola Bolaji and Chigozie Jeremiah Nnanna returned home with silver and bronze medals respectively.
Bolaji finished second in the women’s SL3 event after a determined effort in the final, where she was beaten by Japan’s Shino Kawai. The Nigerian star had impressed throughout the tournament, advancing to the title match with commanding performances that highlighted her growing influence among the sport’s top competitors.
Her journey to the podium included a confident semifinal victory over China’s Gaoying Yuan, alongside straight-set wins against Australia’s Caitlin Dransfield, Brazil’s Adriane Ávila, France’s Milena Surreau, and Turkey’s Halime Yildiz. The silver medal represents her maiden appearance on the World Championship podium and further strengthens her reputation following her bronze medal success at the 2024 Summer Paralympics.
Reflecting on her achievement, Bolaji described the medal as a symbol of perseverance and growth.
This silver medal is more than metal — it’s discipline, resilience, tears, sweat, and unshakable belief. I walked into the World Championships with a dream, and I walked out with proof that hard work speaks louder than doubt. I’m proud of how far I’ve come, and this is only the beginning,” she said.
Nnanna also carved his name into the record books by capturing bronze in the men’s SL4 category, becoming the first African male athlete to secure a medal at the global championship. His achievement, combined with Bolaji’s result, marks a landmark moment for Nigeria in international para-badminton.
Reacting to the performances, the National Sports Commission (NSC) praised both athletes for their determination and excellence on the world stage. The Commission noted that the podium finishes underline the country’s progress in para-sports and reaffirmed its dedication to athlete development, welfare, and sustained global competitiveness.
It added that the accomplishments should inspire a new generation of Nigerian athletes while assuring Bolaji and Nnanna of continued backing as they set their sights on future world events and Paralympic glory.
