Nigeria’s para-badminton star, Eniola Bolaji, has climbed to World No. 1 in the women’s SL3 category in the latest rankings released by the Badminton World Federation on Tuesday, February 17.
Bolaji moved to the top of the global rankings following her impressive silver-medal performance at the 2026 World Para-Badminton Championship in Bahrain. She fell 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 to claim the top spot. Her rise was further boosted by victory at the Egypt International in January, where she successfully defended her title for the second consecutive year.
President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Francis Orbih, described Bolaji’s achievement as a landmark moment for Nigeria and Africa, noting that it reflects sustained investment and structured support for para-badminton in the country.
“This is one of the biggest moments for Nigerian badminton,” Orbih said, noting that Bolaji’s rise to World No. 1 follows her appearance at the 2024 Paralympic Games. “She might have reached this position earlier if she had competed in more tournaments last year, but she regained stability and has carried that momentum into this season with strong performances.”
Orbih also acknowledged the role of key stakeholders in the growth of para-badminton in Nigeria.
“This achievement reflects the support and resources committed by the National Sports Commission, the Abia State Government and GIG Logistics. Their backing has created the environment for our athletes to train, compete and excel globally,” he said.
Despite narrowly missing out on gold, Orbih praised Bolaji’s resilience and historic accomplishment.
“She has now become the first African to win a silver medal at the Para-Badminton World Championship. We will continue to provide the support she needs as she prepares for upcoming tournaments. We are confident she will keep making Nigeria and Africa proud.”
Bolaji’s rise to World No. 1 marks another milestone in her career and further cements her status as one of the leading figures in global para-badminton.
