Eniola Bolaji Wins Nigeria’s First Medal at the 2024 Paralympics
Eniola Mariam Bolaji has made history by becoming the first African athlete to earn a medal in Para-Badminton, securing a Bronze in the women’s Singles SL3 category for Nigeria.
On Monday morning, Bolaji defeated Ukrainian player Oksana Kozyna with a decisive 2-0 (21-9, 21-9) victory, marking Nigeria’s first Paralympics medal in Paris. Although Bolaji aimed for gold, she lost to China’s Zuxian Xiao 2-0 (16-21, 17-21) in the semi-finals on Sunday but redeemed herself with the bronze medal the following day.
This achievement ends a medal drought for Nigeria, following recent disappointing performances at the Olympic Games and the World U-20 Athletics Championship. In response to her historic accomplishment, Bolaji took to her X page to dedicate her medal to her late coach, Nigeria, and Africa.
“It was an amazing moment to win a bronze medal for myself, my country, my supporters, and all of Africa at the 2024 Paralympics. I dedicate this achievement to my late coach, Bello Oyebanji. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the 18-year-old wrote.
Sports Development Minister John Owan Enoh has also extended his congratulations to Bolaji for her outstanding performance.
