Nigeria’s para-badminton ace, Eniola Bolaji, has climbed to the top of the women’s SL3 rankings in the latest list published on Tuesday, February 17, by the Badminton World Federation (BWF).
Her rise follows an impressive outing at the BWF Para Badminton World Championships in Bahrain, where she secured a silver medal after losing 2–0 (21–12, 21–17) to Japan’s world No. 7, Shino Kawai, in the final at New Capital Hall on February 14.
A multiple national and African champion, Bolaji ended the reign of Indonesia’s Qonitah Ikhtiar Syakuroh to take over the No. 1 position. Her surge in the rankings was further reinforced by her victory at the Egypt Para Badminton International in January, where she successfully defended her title for the second consecutive year.
President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Francis Orbih, described the achievement as a landmark moment for Nigeria and the African continent, adding that it reflects deliberate investment and structured backing for para-badminton in the country.
This is the biggest news of the year, Eniola Bolaji claiming the World No. 1 spot following her participation in the 2024 Summer Paralympics. She would likely have attained this position earlier if she had competed in more tournaments last year.
She regained full stability last season and has carried that momentum into this year, already featuring in two major tournaments with outstanding performances.”
Orbih also recognised the contributions of key stakeholders in sustaining the sport’s growth in Nigeria.
This achievement is also a testament to the support and resources committed to para badminton by the National Sports Commission, the Abia State Government, and GIG Logistics. Their continued backing has created the enabling environment for our athletes to train, compete, and excel on the global stage.”
Despite falling just short of gold, Orbih applauded Bolaji’s determination and the historic significance of her feat.
I know many Nigerians were expecting another gold medal, but we must recognise that other players are equally determined to dethrone her. She has now become the first African to win a silver medal at the Para-Badminton World Championship.
The federation will continue to provide the necessary support as she prepares for upcoming tournaments. We are confident she will continue to make Nigeria and Africa proud.”
Bolaji’s ascent to world No. 1 represents another major milestone in her career, further cementing her reputation as one of the leading figures in global para-badminton.
