Nigeria’s Eniola Bolaji Claims Gold At 2026 Peru Para Badminton International

By Saheed Afolabi

Nigeria’s Eniola Bolaji has been crowned champion in the Women’s SL3 category at the Peru Para Badminton International 2026.

The Paralympic Games bronze medallist dominated the final on Sunday, August 9, defeating Brazil’s Kauana Beckenkamp 2-0 (21-12, 21-12) in a one-sided contest.

World number two Bolaji produced a clinical run throughout the tournament. She began by thrashing Brazil’s Maria Da Silva Abinaecia 2-0 (21-7, 21-6) in the first round, then overwhelmed Croatia’s Gabriela Montero 2-0 (21-2, 21-1) in the second round. In the semi-final, she dispatched Mexico’s Maria Rojas Peres 2-0 (21-6, 21-9) before sealing the title against Beckenkamp.

Badminton Federation of Nigeria President Francis Orbih praised Bolaji for her strong response after her showing at the British and Irish International in June.

“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,” Orbih said.

He noted that the Peru event forms part of the build-up to the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games.

“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.”

Orbih also thanked key partners for their support. “We appreciate the immense contributions of GIG Logistics, Yonex and the National Sports Commission to Eniola’s progression. Their support has been invaluable to her development and success.”