President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Ms. Eniola Mariam Bolaji for her outstanding performance at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, where she made history by becoming the first African athlete to win a medal in badminton at the Games. Bolaji, an 18-year-old para-badminton player, clinched the bronze medal in the women’s Para-badminton SL3 category, marking a significant milestone for Nigeria and the African continent.
In a statement released by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Chief Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu commended Ms. Bolaji for her exceptional courage and resilience. He praised her determination to triumph against all odds, which culminated in securing Nigeria’s first medal at the Paris Paralympics. The President highlighted Bolaji’s achievement as a testament to her hard work, dedication, and the indomitable spirit of Nigerian athletes on the global stage.
President Tinubu expressed his immense pride in Ms. Bolaji’s accomplishment, noting that her success serves as an inspiration to millions of Nigerians, particularly the youth. He described her as a shining example of the resourcefulness, talent, and grit that define Nigeria’s younger generation. The President further encouraged Ms. Bolaji to continue striving for greatness and to use her success as a stepping stone for future achievements in her sporting career.
The President also recognized the significance of Bolaji’s victory for para-sports in Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of supporting and promoting inclusivity in sports. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to investing in the development of athletes with disabilities and ensuring that they have the necessary resources to excel in their respective fields.
President Tinubu’s congratulatory message is a reflection of the nation’s collective pride in Bolaji’s historic feat, which not only elevates Nigeria’s standing in the Paralympic community but also underscores the potential of African athletes on the world stage. The President called on all Nigerians to celebrate this momentous achievement and to continue supporting the country’s athletes in their quest for international success.
