The Minister of Sports Development, John Enoh, has commended Eniola Bolaji for winning Nigeria’s first medal at the ongoing Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, News About Nigeria reports.
On Monday, Bolaji won bronze in the para-badminton women’s singles SL3 event after defeating Kozyna Oksana of Ukraine 21-9, 21-9.
Reacting to this victory and great feat, the minister hailed Bolaji, applauding her for making the country proud.
Enoh, who was on the ground in Paris to motivate her and other athletes to victory, also urged the athletes to continuously believe in themselves and showcase the Nigerian resilient spirit, adding that the ministry would continue to give Team Nigeria all the support it deserves to attain a podium finish.
The minister also thanked Bolaji for winning the medal for her late coach and the country while charging other athletes to ensure podium finishes in the various sports.
“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, and fly the nation’s flag very high in Paris.
“I believe in your capacity. Having done all we should as a government, we are rooting for you. It is now over to you to put smiles on the faces of Nigerians,” he stated.
With this win, Bolaji has become the first African to win a medal in para-badminton.
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.
