The minister of sports development, John Enoh, has hailed Mariam Bolaji for winning Nigeria’s first medal at the ongoing Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.

Bolaji, on Monday, won bronze in Para badminton Women’s singles SL3 event, after defeating Kozyna Oksana of Ukraine 21-9, 21-9.

With the feat, Bolaji became the first African to win a medal in para-badminton.

The minister, who was on ground in Paris to motivate her and other athletes to victory, stressed the importance of the athletes to believe in themselves and show the Nigerian resilience.

Mr Enoh said the ministry would continue to give Team Nigeria all the support it deserves to attain podium finish.

“You all can do it for yourselves and for the country. 

“As a ministry, we have made available what you need, make all of the sports-loving people of Nigeria proud of you, fly the nation’s flag very high in Paris. 

“I believe in your capacity. Having done all we should as government, we are rooting for you. It is now over to you to put smiles on the faces of Nigerians,” Mr Enoh said.

The minister specifically thanked Bolaji for winning the medal for her late coach and the country, while charging other athletes to also ensure podium finish in the various sports.

Team Nigeria is parading 24 athletes who are competing in four sports at the Games; Para athletics, Para badminton, Para powerlifting and Para table tennis. 

(NAN)