BFN urges Eniola Bolaji to sustain momentum after winning gold
Francis Orbih, the president of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, on Sunday urged Eniola Bolaji to remain focused and sustain her momentum after winning gold at the just-concluded 2026 Peru Para Badminton International.
Mr Orbih, while commending the Paralympic Games bronze medallist for her impressive performance in the Women’s SL3 category of the competition, advised her to remain focused and sustain her momentum.
Ms Bolaji, the world number two, defeated Brazil’s Kauana Beckenkamp 2-0 (21-12, 21-12) in the final on Sunday to emerge champion.
Mr Orbih said the victory demonstrated Ms Bolaji’s consistency, determination and ability to overcome challenges, urging her to remain committed to her development.
“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 said.
The BFN president said the Peru International was part of Ms Bolaji’s preparations for the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.
“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,” he said.
He urged the Nigerian para-badminton star to build on the victory and maintain her focus as she works towards achieving further success at international competitions.
Ms Bolaji defeated Brazil’s Maria Da Silva Abinaecia 2-0 (21-7, 21-6) in the first round before overcoming Croatia’s Gabriela Montero 2-0 (21-2, 21-1) in the second round.
She continued her impressive run with a 2-0 (21-6, 21-9) victory over Mexico’s Maria Rojas Peres in the semi-final to set up a clash with Beckenkamp in the final.
The Nigerian dominated the final, winning both games 21-12 to secure the gold medal.
Ms Orbih commended GIG Logistics, Yonex and the National Sports Commission for their contributions to Ms Bolaji’s development.
Ms Bolaji’s latest triumph added to her growing list of achievements, providing further encouragement for Nigeria’s preparations towards the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games.
The 2026 Peru Para Badminton International was held between August 3 and 9 in Lima.
(NAN)
We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.
More from Peoples Gazette
Agriculture
FG tasks ECOWAS on leveraging financing strategies for agroecology
The federal government has urged stakeholders in the agriculture and finance sectors in the West Africa region to leverage financing strategies to enhance agroecology practices
Politics
Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku
“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”
Sport
Eko 2026: Organisers to engage NIMS on age verification
The organisers said the move aims to curb age cheating among athletes.
States
PSN elects Munirat Akanbi-Bello as first female chair in Kwara
The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria Kwara branch elected Hajia Munirat Akanbi-Bello as its state chairman.
Heading 2
2027: Yoruba youth group vows massive grassroots mobilisation for Lagos candidates
Bilisi Movement says it has intensified massive grassroots mobilisation across Lagos State to promote greater indigenous participation in governance.
Heading 1
Convicted businessman Invictus Obi returns to Nigeria’s social circle, eyes political office
A close associate of Mr Okeke told the Peoples Gazette his plans for political office would soon be made public.
Heading 3
Tinubu leaves for Europe as rumblings grow over past drug dealings, relationship with CIA, FBI
Bayo Onanuga, presidential spokesperson, said the president would “return home after the working vacation to join the hectic campaign for the January 2027 election.”
Heading 5
NABTEB sets September 10 deadline for 2026 November/December certificate exams registration
NABTEB’s spokesperson, Uchechukwu Olisah, urged prospective candidates, schools, and other stakeholders to comply with the approved registration requirements.
