Bolaji Bags Silver at 2026 British & Irish Para Badminton

Eniola Bolaji of Nigeria secured a silver medal at the 2026 British & Irish Para Badminton International, held yesterday in Dublin. The Paralympic bronze and World Championship silver medalist competed in the SL3 women's singles final, ultimately falling 2-0 (21-18, 23-21) to Japan's Shino Kawai.

Bolaji showcased a strong performance throughout the tournament to reach the final. She defeated India's Neeraj 2-0 (21-15, 21-3) and France's Milena Surreau 2-0 (21-19, 21-13) in the group stage. Continuing her dominant form, the multiple African champion then beat Türkiye's Halime Yildiz 2-0 (21-16, 21-7) in the quarterfinals, followed by a decisive 2-0 (21-7, 21-9) victory over Australia's Celine Vinot in the semifinals.

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It was a fantastic performance and I am very happy with what Eniola achieved. I am motivated to intensify efforts to ensure she trains outside the country because it is only a matter of time before she starts beating the Japanese player, Shino Kawai.

Francis Orbih, President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN), lauded Bolaji's achievement, calling her performance in Dublin "fantastic." He expressed confidence in her ability to defeat Kawai in future encounters and revealed the federation's plans to arrange an overseas training program. "It is only a matter of time before she starts beating the Japanese player," Orbih stated.

The BFN is looking to organize a three-month training tour abroad for Bolaji to further enhance her skills. Orbih also acknowledged the support from the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Badminton Confederation Africa (BCA), as well as sponsorships from Yonex and GIG Logistics. He remains optimistic that with continued support and international exposure, Bolaji will consistently contend for major titles in upcoming global competitions.

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I have congratulated her for setting the tone once again, and we are looking forward to arranging a three-month training tour abroad to further improve her game.