Orbih secured all 13 votes cast during the congress, which took place at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium on Monday, March 2. Adamu Alhaji Lawan was also elected as Vice President.

In his acceptance speech, Orbih congratulated the newly elected board members and expressed confidence in their ability to collectively move Nigerian badminton to greater heights.

“I want to congratulate the entire board member and I am confident that we are going to deliver,” Orbih said.

“There is a lot of work to be done. We have had humble achievements in the past. It is time for us to build on what we have achieved and consolidate to take the Federation to greater heights.”

Calling for unity and collaboration, Orbih urged stakeholders to play active roles in strengthening the federation’s programmes and expanding the sport’s reach across the country.

“I am counting on all of you to have your hands on deck because I cannot do it alone. Let us join hands to take the Federation to a level where we’ll be the envy of other sporting federations in Nigeria,” he added. “We have work to do. Whatever you can contribute to the growth and development of the Federation.”

During the inauguration of the new board, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, congratulated Orbih on his re-election and commended the federation for conducting a crisis-free electoral process.

National Sports Commission chairman, Shehu Dikko adresses the new board of the BFN

“I want to congratulate the board members for unanimously re-electing Francis Orbih and having a crisis-free election,” Dikko said.

He urged the president to consolidate on the gains recorded during his previous tenures and to intensify efforts over the next four years.

“Orbih has done well and deserves to be re-elected as a member of the African and World body. He has taken on huge debt by presenting himself as President of BFN, and he doesn’t have any other choice than to continue his good works,” Dikko added.

Orbih’s re-election is expected to provide continuity in the federation’s administration as it seeks to expand grassroots development, improve Nigeria’s international competitiveness and strengthen its presence within continental and global badminton bodies.

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Solaja’s re-election came during the BFN zonal election held in Enugu, where she emerged as the representative for the South East zone. Delegates affirmed her return in recognition of what officials described as her meritorious contributions to grassroots badminton development across the region.

A former multiple African champion, Solaja was among the global pioneering badminton players to feature at the Olympic Games, carving her name into the sport’s history before transitioning into administration.

Oby Solaja receives a new mandate to contribute to the development of badminton in Nigeria.

After retiring from competitive play, she equipped herself for sports governance by completing the six-module sports administration programme for the CIES/FIFA diploma at Cairo University — a move that strengthened her credentials in sports organisation and leadership.

Grassroots Focus in the Southeast

Over the past four years, Solaja has championed badminton development in Southeastern Nigeria through an annual championship organised in partnership with the Bet9ja Foundation. The tournament, held on a rotational basis across states in the region, has provided a competitive platform for emerging talents and reinforced grassroots participation.

Enugu State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Lloyd Ikechukwu Ekweremadu chats with the Southeast Badminton Championship Convener, Oby Edoga-Solaja

Her efforts have been widely credited with expanding the sport’s reach and encouraging youth engagement in badminton within the zone.

Speaking after her confirmation, Solaja pledged renewed vigour in spreading what she described as the “gospel of badminton,” emphasising continuity, talent discovery and structured development pathways.

She also expressed appreciation to Kunle Soname, whose Bet9ja Foundation has supported the propagation of badminton in the Southeast.

With her fresh mandate, stakeholders expect Solaja to consolidate existing programmes while strengthening institutional structures within the federation — a continuation of a journey that began on the court and now thrives in the boardroom.

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The latest rankings released on Tuesday, February 17, by the Badminton World Federation (BWF) confirmed Bolaji’s ascent to the summit following her historic silver medal finish at the 2026 World Para Badminton Championship in Bahrain.

Historic Rise After World Championship Silver

Bolaji secured her place in history after advancing to the final of the global showpiece, held at the New Capital Hall in Bahrain on February 14. She eventually fell 2–0 (21–12, 21–17) to Japan’s world No. 7, Shino Kawai, but her runner-up finish earned her enough ranking points to dethrone Indonesia’s Qonitah Ikhtiar Syakuroh as world number one.

In the process, Bolaji also became the first African athlete to win a silver medal at the World Para Badminton Championship. This is a milestone that underscores Nigeria’s growing footprint in para-sports.

Her ranking surge was further strengthened by her triumph at the Egypt International in January, where she successfully defended her title for the second consecutive year.

Landmark Moment for Nigerian Sport

President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Francis Orbih, described Bolaji’s achievement as a defining moment for Nigerian and African sports.

“This is the biggest news of the year, Eniola Bolaji claiming the World No. 1 spot following her participation in the 2024 Paralympic Games. She would likely have attained this position earlier if she had competed in more tournaments last year,” Orbih said.

“She regained full stability last season and has carried that momentum into this year, already featuring in two major tournaments with outstanding performances.”

Bolaji’s achievement places the BFN ahead of other federations under the National Sports Commission in producing a world number one athlete, which is a testament to what observers describe as deliberate investment, structured athlete development, and sustained technical support within the federation.

Powered by GIG, Eniola Bolaji has attained an enviable height

Structured Support Paying Dividends

Orbih credited the progress of para-badminton in Nigeria to coordinated backing from multiple stakeholders.

“This achievement is also a testament to the support and resources committed to para badminton by the National Sports Commission, the Abia State Government, and GIG Logistics. Their continued backing has created the enabling environment for our athletes to train, compete, and excel on the global stage,” he noted.

Despite narrowly missing out on gold in Bahrain, the BFN President praised Bolaji’s resilience and consistency at the elite level.

“I know many Nigerians were expecting another gold medal, but we must recognise that other players are equally determined to dethrone her. She has now become the first African to win a silver medal at the Para-Badminton World Championship,” Orbih added.

A New Benchmark for Nigerian Federations

Bolaji’s ascent to the top of the global rankings marks more than a personal triumph; it signals a structural breakthrough for Nigerian sport.

For decades, Nigerian athletes have achieved continental dominance and occasional global podium finishes, but reaching World No. 1 status — particularly in a ranking-driven sport governed by transparent international metrics — represents a new benchmark.

As Bolaji prepares for upcoming tournaments, the federation has pledged continued technical and logistical support to sustain her dominance.

With a World No. 1 athlete now flying Nigeria’s flag, the Badminton Federation of Nigeria has set a new standard — not only for para-sport development, but for all federations under the National Sports Commission aspiring to global excellence.

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The reigning African champion defeated China’s Gaoying Yuan in straight sets, 21–12, 21–16, in the women’s SL3 semifinal at the New Capital Indoor Hall to book her place in Saturday’s final.

Bolaji will now face Japan’s Shino Kawai on February 14 as she bids to secure her first world title and add to her growing list of historic achievements.

The Nigerian star has been in imperious form throughout the tournament. She opened her campaign with a dominant 2–0 (21–13, 21–12) win over Australia’s Caitlin Dransfield, ranked world No. 18, before delivering a crushing 2–0 (21–3, 21–7) victory against Brazil’s world No. 10 Adriane Ávila.

In the Round of 16, Bolaji comfortably dispatched France’s Milena Surreau 21–13, 21–12, then overpowered Turkey’s world No. 5 Halime Yildiz 21–6, 21–9 in the quarterfinals to reach the last four.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Chigozie Nnanna produced a landmark performance in the men’s SL4 category, securing a bronze medal after a semifinal defeat to India’s world No. 2 Naveen Sivakumar.

With their podium finishes, Bolaji and Nnanna have become the first African players to win medals at the Para-Badminton World Championship — a significant milestone for Nigerian badminton and the continent at large.

Bolaji had earlier made history at the 2024 Summer Paralympics, becoming the first African to claim a para-badminton medal at the Games with her bronze medal performance.

Reacting to the athletes’ exploits, President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Francis Orbih, praised their achievements and highlighted the federation’s strategic development efforts.

“I am excited that Eniola Bolaji has reached her second final in two months, and that Chigozie Nnanna has secured his first World Championship medal,” Orbih said.

“There have been deliberate and strategic plans to ensure that more athletes, beyond Bolaji, attain podium success. I am delighted that this vision is becoming a reality, particularly following our successful hosting of the African Para-Badminton Championships in Abia State last year.

“If all goes as planned, Bolaji could claim her second gold medal of the year, a major confidence boost as she continues her journey toward the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics.”

Orbih also commended the National Sports Commission, the Abia State Government and GIG Logistics for their sustained support toward the development of para-badminton in Nigeria.

With one match separating her from global glory, Bolaji now stands on the brink of another historic achievement for Nigeria and Africa.

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Bolaji will be making her second international appearance of the year, coming on the back of a dominant performance at the Egypt International Championship in January, where she won gold and reaffirmed her status as one of the leading para-badminton players in the world.

She will be joined in Bahrain by two other Nigerian athletes, with Chigozie Jeremiah, a 2024 Paralympian, set to compete in the men’s SL4 category. Chinyere Okoro will feature in the women’s SL4 event as Nigeria’s sole representative in that category.

Speaking after the team’s departure, Francis Orbih, President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN), expressed confidence in the athletes’ readiness and ability to deliver strong performances for the country.

Orbih revealed that the players underwent an intensive month-long training camp in Abuja and are fully prepared to compete at the highest level. “Nigeria’s para-badminton players are once again ready to represent the country on the world stage,” he said. The athletes have shown great dedication and commitment during the camping exercise in Abuja.

“Eniola Bolaji is currently in the best form of her career after her victory at the Egypt International Championship, while Chigozie Jeremiah and Chinyere Okoro are well prepared and motivated to win laurels for the nation,” Orbih added.

He also commended the National Sports Commission and GIG Logistics for their continued support, noting that their contributions have been crucial in enabling Nigerian athletes to participate in key international ranking tournaments.

The Para-Badminton World Championship in Bahrain is expected to attract top-ranked players from across the globe, with vital ranking points and honours at stake.

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Orbih disclosed on Thursday during a BFN board meeting at the Check Inn Hotel in Abuja, where key issues bordering on governance transition, athlete development, youth programmes and funding challenges were discussed.

According to the BFN president, the elections will be conducted strictly in line with guidelines to be issued by the National Sports Commission.

“For the elections, we are working in partnership with the National Sports Commission and under its guidance. The guidelines will be released by the Commission, and elections conducted strictly in line with them,” Orbih said. “Hopefully, the election will be held in early March, after which the new board will be inaugurated.”

Reflecting on his four-year tenure, Orbih described the period as largely successful, attributing the federation’s progress to collective effort rather than individual leadership.

“The journey of four years, I would say, has been very successful to a large extent. We achieved quite a lot. I would not say I was responsible for the success alone; it was teamwork,” he said, noting that he worked with a strong and supportive board.

While acknowledging the challenges encountered during the tenure, Orbih stressed that commitment and sustained effort were critical to the gains recorded.

Declining to assess his own performance, he said such judgment should be left to others, but pointed to positive feedback from within and outside Nigeria as evidence of progress.

“From the feedback and commendations, not only within Nigeria but across Africa and other continents, I believe we have done reasonably well,” he said, adding that endorsements from past federation presidents and sports authorities further reinforced that view.

Orbih highlighted Nigeria’s growing influence in continental badminton, recalling that the country hosted the Badminton Confederation of Africa’s (BCA) Road to Los Angeles 2028 programme, becoming the first nation to launch the initiative.

He also cited the achievements of para-badminton star Eniola Bolaji as a major milestone for Nigerian and African badminton.

“Eniola Bolaji brought immense pride to Africa by becoming the first African to win a medal in para badminton at the Paralympics,” Orbih said, noting that her bronze medal performance has spurred early preparations towards a potential gold at the LA 2028 Paralympics.

Providing an update on Bolaji’s progress, Orbih disclosed that she recently won gold at the Egypt International and is currently ranked world number two.

“She is heading to the World Para Badminton Championships next week and then to Spain in March. With sponsorship support from the National Sports Commission, GIG Logistics and Yonex, we are hopeful she can reach world number one this year,” he said.

Orbih also revealed that Jeremiah Chigozie has been placed on a training grant by the National Sports Commission as part of his own Road to Los Angeles 2028 programme, while national singles star Anu Opeyori is currently on scholarship in the United States as he works towards a full return to competitive badminton.

On funding, the BFN president expressed optimism, citing growing support from both government and private sector partners, including GIG Logistics, Yonex, Mutual Benefits Assurance and Bond Global Energy.

“Government cannot do it alone,” Orbih said. “We are hopeful of attracting more private sector support so we can make even greater progress. We must continue to prioritise and channel available resources to what matters most in our development plans.”

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The world No. 2 and Paralympic bronze medallist was in imperious form at the New Capital Indoor Hall, defeating Turkey’s world No. 7 Halime Yildiz 2–0 (21–10, 21–4) in Sunday’s final to crown a flawless campaign.

Bolaji had earlier set the tone with a commanding 2–0 (21–9, 21–10) win over Yildiz in the opening round, before sweeping aside India’s Tulika Jadgave 2–0 (21–10, 21–7). She maintained her dominance by beating another Indian opponent, Manasi Girishchandra Joshi, 2–0 (21–11, 21–13) and then outclassed Shivam Yadav Neeraj 2–0 (21–10, 21–11) in the semi-final.

Her unbeaten run confirmed once again why she is Africa’s number one para badminton player and one of the world’s leading stars in the sport.

President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Francis Orbih, hailed Bolaji’s consistency and impact, describing her as a global ambassador for Nigerian sport.

“Eniola Bolaji continues to put Nigeria on the world map,” Orbih said. “She began her journey to greatness in North Africa in 2025 and went on to win almost every gold medal available. This victory shows she is ready for another exciting year and more international success.”

Orbih also praised the National Sports Commission and sponsors GIG Logistics for their continued backing, stressing that their support has been crucial to the growth of para badminton in Nigeria.

With another international gold secured, Bolaji has reinforced Nigeria’s growing reputation in para sports and signalled her intent to make 2026 another landmark year in her already glittering career.

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The Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN) has reiterated its commitment to promoting and developing badminton across the country, stressing that its long-term vision remains centred on building a strong platform for Nigerian athletes to excel locally and on the global stage.

BFN President, Francis Orbih, reaffirmed this stance on Sunday during the final day of competition at the fourth edition of the Southeast Badminton Championship, held at the Indoor Multipurpose Gymnasium of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu.

Orbih noted that Nigeria’s recent rise and strengthened dominance in African badminton did not happen by chance but through “well-planned, collective and coordinated efforts” by the Federation, its partners, and technical departments.

He expressed satisfaction with the quality of play and organisation of the championship, describing it as “another testament to the promise and potential of the Southeast zone.”

“This event truly lived up to expectations,” Orbih said. “The performance level was high, and it shows that our developmental programmes are working. We will continue to prioritise athlete development and ensure that Nigerian players can compete favourably with the best in the world.”

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Obiageli Edoga-Solaja Champions Talent Growth, Calls for Greater Support at Southeast Badminton Championship

BFN Board Member and Southeast representative, Mrs. Obiageli Edoga-Solaja, has once again reaffirmed her reputation as one of the strongest advocates for badminton development in Nigeria, as she praised the high turnout and quality of talent showcased at the just-concluded Southeast Badminton Championship in Enugu.

Solaja, a former African champion and 1996 Atlanta Olympian, expressed delight at the growing pool of young players emerging from the region.

She noted that several of the prospects discovered during the three-day event will be groomed for future national and international competitions, reinforcing the Southeast’s legacy as a breeding ground for elite badminton talent.

“This championship has shown that the Southeast remains a powerhouse of raw talent,” she said. “Some of the players we’ve seen here have the potential to develop into national stars. With proper training and guidance, they can become world-class.”

A Lifelong Contributor to Nigerian Badminton

Beyond her administrative role, Solaja has been widely celebrated for her decades-long contribution to the sport.

She is a multiple-time, African Badminton queen and the 2019  African Women in Badminton Award.

As an ex-international who dominated African badminton in her prime, she has continued to invest her time, expertise, and influence in nurturing grassroots talent, mentoring young players, and championing development programmes across the region.

Under her leadership and advocacy, several youth-focused initiatives have been implemented, contributing significantly to the sport’s rising profile in the Southeast.

Appreciation to Sponsors, Call for Broader Support

Solaja also lauded the Bet9ja Foundation, sponsors of the championship, for their consistent and meaningful investment in badminton. She stressed that the sustained partnership between corporate organisations and sports federations is vital to the growth of the game.

“We have the talent; what we need is sustained backing,” she emphasised. “The Southeast has always been a strong badminton region, and with more support—from companies, individuals and stakeholders—we can produce world-class players and elevate Nigerian badminton globally.”

Her call resonated strongly with participants and officials who believe that corporate and community involvement remains central to sustaining the momentum generated by competitions such as the Southeast Championship.

As the event concluded, many stakeholders acknowledged that with passionate advocates like Solaja leading the charge, the future of badminton in the region—and in Nigeria—looks promising and primed for greater achievements.

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Enugu State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Lloyd Ikechukwu Ekweremadu, has applauded the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN) and the organisers of the Southeast Badminton Championship for delivering a highly successful event in Enugu.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Ekweremadu described the tournament as a testament to the state’s renewed commitment to sports development.

He revealed that the Ministry is already working hand-in-hand with the BFN to ensure that all technical requirements are fully met ahead of the National Sports Festival, which Enugu is preparing to host.

“We are proud of what we have seen here,” the Commissioner said. “This championship reflects the energy and potential in our state and across the Southeast.

“As we prepare for the National Sports Festival, we are collaborating closely with the Federation to ensure that Enugu meets the highest technical standards.”

Grassroots Investment Paying Off

In a related development, Chairman of the Enugu State Badminton Association, Kester Agu, said the championship highlighted the significant strides made in the sport within the state. He noted that several young players identified through recent grassroots programmes have now progressed to the point where they can compete—and possibly represent Enugu—at major national events.

“Our development projects are beginning to yield results,” Agu remarked. “We are excited about the young talents emerging, and we believe many of them will soon become competitive forces at the national level.”

Enugu Athletes Hold Their Own

Head of Technical for the championship and Enugu State Coach, Ifejika Godswill, expressed satisfaction with the performance of his athletes.

Despite facing some of Nigeria’s most experienced and established players, he said the home-grown athletes demonstrated resilience, maturity, and technical improvement.

“The exposure they gained here is invaluable,” Godswill noted. “Our players competed bravely and showed that they can stand shoulder to shoulder with the best in the country.”

With the tournament further cementing Enugu’s position as a growing badminton hub, stakeholders remain optimistic that the state’s continued investment in the sport will produce future champions capable of shining on national and international stages.

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