By Aderonke Ojo
Nigeria’s Para Badminton ace, Mariam Eniola Bolaji, has booked her place in the final of the ongoing POLYTRON Indonesia Para Badminton International 2025 after a commanding straight-sets victory over India’s Mandeep Kaur in the women’s SL3 semi-final.
Bolaji produced a brilliant all-round performance to defeat her Indian opponent 21–12, 21–18, sealing a 2–0 win that showcased her tactical maturity and determination. The triumph secures her a spot in Sunday’s final, where she will face the tournament’s top seed and World No. 1, Leani Ratri Oktila Syakuroh of Indonesia.
The Nigerian star, who has enjoyed a superb run of form throughout the competition, continues to build on the momentum that has defined her rise as one of Africa’s leading Para Badminton players.
Speaking after the match, President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN), Barr. Francis Orbih, praised Bolaji’s outstanding performance and resilience on the international stage.
“Eniola has once again proven her class and fighting spirit,” Orbih said.
“Reaching the final in Indonesia against the world’s best shows her quality and the progress Nigeria continues to make in Para Badminton. We are proud of her consistency and determination to keep the national flag flying.”
Barr. Orbih also expressed appreciation to the Director General and Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC) for their support in sponsoring Nigeria’s participation at the championship.
“We are sincerely grateful to the leadership of the NSC for their immense backing,” he added. “Their commitment to empowering Para athletes through funding and encouragement is a testament to their vision for inclusive sports development in Nigeria.”
Bolaji’s journey to the final marks another major milestone in her flourishing career and reinforces Nigeria’s growing reputation in global Para Badminton. She will take on Syakuroh in what promises to be an exciting final clash on Sunday, November 2, 2025.