Nigeria’s para-badminton star, Mariam Eniola Bolaji, has secured a silver medal at the 2026 British & Irish Para-Badminton International in Ireland after an impressive campaign that saw her reach the women’s singles SL3 final.
The National Sports Commission (NSC) announced the achievement in a statement issued on Sunday, describing Bolaji’s performance as another significant milestone for Nigerian para-sports.
Bolaji displayed outstanding form throughout the tournament, overcoming her opponents to book a place in the final.
However, she fell just short of claiming the gold medal after losing 21-18, 23-21 to Japan’s Shino Kawai in a closely contested championship match.
The silver medal further strengthens Bolaji’s growing reputation on the international para-badminton circuit and reinforces Nigeria’s presence in the sport.
Reacting to the achievement, the Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, praised the athlete for her resilience, discipline and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Olopade also acknowledged the contributions of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Bolaji’s coaches, support staff, sponsors and other stakeholders whose efforts have helped the athlete compete successfully on the global stage.
He reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to supporting Nigerian athletes with the resources and enabling environment needed to achieve greater success at both national and international competitions.
Bolaji’s latest podium finish adds another chapter to her impressive career and underscores Nigeria’s continued progress in international para-badminton competitions.
