The Paralympic Games bronze medallist defeated Kauana Beckenkamp of Brazil 2-0 (21-12, 21-12) in a one-sided final on Sunday, August 9, 2026.

The world number 2 began her campaign by pummelling Brazil’s Maria Da Silva Abinaecia 2-0 (21-7, 21-6) in the first round before humbling Gabriela Montero of Croatia 2-0 (21-2, 21-1) in the second round.

The multiple African champion then crushed Maria Rojas Peres of Mexico 2-0 (21-6, 21-9) in the semifinal before overcoming Beckenkamp in the final.

Speaking after the victory, President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Francis Orbih commended Eniola Bolaji for bouncing back strongly from her performance at the British and Irish International last June.

Orbih said Bolaji’s performance in Peru had demonstrated her consistency and ability to overcome challenges.

He said: “This performance has once again proven Eniola’s consistency and her ability to overcome challenges. She has shown great character and determination to bounce back strongly.”

He added that the Peru International is part of Bolaji’s preparations for the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games.

He said: “The Peru International is part of our build-up to the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games, and performances like this are very encouraging as we continue with the preparations.”

Orbih also acknowledged the immense contributions of GIG Logistics, Yonex and the National Sports Commission to Bolaji’s progress.

“We appreciate the immense contributions of GIG Logistics, Yonex and the National Sports Commission to Eniola’s progression. Their support has been invaluable to her development and success.”

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Nigeria continues to make remarkable strides on the international sporting stage, and at the forefront of this growing recognition in para sports is para badminton sensation, Eniola Bolaji.

With each tournament appearance, the Kwara born Bolaji is not only redefining excellence in para badminton but also projecting Nigeria as a formidable force in the global para sports community. Through resilience, discipline, and outstanding technical skill, Bolaji has steadily climbed the ranks, delivering impressive performances in continental and international competitions. Her consistency on the court, combined with her fighting spirit, has earned her growing recognition among elite para badminton athletes worldwide.

Beyond medals and rankings, the current world No1 para badminton players journey symbolizes courage, inclusion, and the limitless potential of a special athlete. She has become an inspiration to thousands of young Nigerians, particularly special athletes, proving that talent, when nurtured with opportunity and determination, can transcend barriers.

Remarkably, the President of the Nigeria Badminton Federation, Francis Orbih, stated that Eniola Bolaji has demonstrated exceptional commitment and talent, positioning herself as one of Nigeria’s brightest ambassadors in international badminton.

Orbih, a Council Member of the Badminton World Federation, further stated that the federation remains committed to creating more opportunities for Nigerian players to excel on the global stage, while providing the necessary support and development platforms to nurture emerging talents across the country. He also thanked the leadership of the National Sports Commission and the federation’s sponsors for their support so far, noting that their contributions have made the task easier than before.

Also, sports analysts and stakeholders now view Bolaji as one of Nigeria’s brightest hopes in para badminton, with strong prospects of podium finishes in major global championships and multi-sport events. Her rapid rise also underscores the importance of sustained investment in para sports development, athlete welfare, and international exposure. Also, her performance has earned her an elite grant from the National Sports Commission to adequately prepare for the forthcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and any other international meets.

As her profile continues to soar, Eniola Bolaji stands not only as an athlete of promise but as a national symbol of perseverance, excellence, and the transformative power of sport.

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Bolaji ascended to the top of the world rankings following her impressive silver medal finish at the 2026 World Para Badminton Championship in Bahrain. She lost 2–0 (21–12, 21–17) in the final to Japan’s world No. 7, Shino Kawai, at the New Capital Hall on February 14.

The multiple national and African champion dethroned Indonesia’s Qonitah Ikhtiar Syakuroh from the summit of the rankings. Her rise was further boosted by her triumph at the Egypt International in January, where she successfully defended her title for the second consecutive year.

President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Mr. Francis Orbih, described Bolaji’s latest achievement as a landmark moment for Nigeria and Africa, noting that her success reflects deliberate investment and structured support 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 Paralympic Games. 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 further acknowledged the critical role played by key stakeholders in sustaining the growth of para-badminton 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 narrowly missing out on gold, Orbih commended Bolaji’s resilience and historic accomplishment.

“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 marks another milestone in her remarkable journey and further cements her status as one of the leading figures in global para badminton.

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