Sports
BFN President Says Eniola Bolaji’s AWIBA Win Boosted His Re-election
Joel Ajayi
President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria ,BFN, Francis Orbih, has heaped praises on Paralympic bronze medalist, Eniola Bolaji, who recently emerged as the winner of the 2024 Africa Women in Badminton Award ,AWIBA. The award recognizes her outstanding achievements and inspiring journey in para-badminton.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Orbih described Bolaji’s recognition as a proud moment for the Federation and the country.
“We’ve now had two Nigerians win this award. As a federation, we knew there would be an award, but no one hinted that she would be the winner. When it was announced, it really caught me off guard. I was even called out to receive it on her behalf. I must confess, it was a bit emotional for me”, Orbih said.
He recalled Bolaji’s earlier recognition in 2021 after winning gold in Spain, making her the fourth African ever to achieve such a feat in international para-badminton.
Orbih also noted that Bolaji’s recognition played a significant role in boosting his own re-election campaign.
“The award contributed to my victory”, he admitted. “During the African General Assembly ,AGA, her achievements were mentioned in no less than three committee reports just before the elections. She was highlighted again as one of the high points of African badminton. It was a very joyful moment for me. Personally, I had to soak it all in”.
He added that the international spotlight on Bolaji also helped reinforce Nigeria’s growing status in the sport.
“It portrayed Nigeria as a country making progress and doing something good for badminton”, he concluded.
Sports
Paul Salami Fires Hat-Trick as U23 Side Defeats 10-Man Melbourne Sharks
Jeph Akanji
Paul Salami’s Stunning Hat-Trick Sinks 10-Man Melbourne Sharks in U23 Showdown
Nigerian-born midfielder Paul Salami stole the show with a sensational hat-trick, leading his side to a dominant 3-0 victory over the Melbourne Sharks in Week 9 of the Australian U23 League.
The 21-year-old rising star opened the scoring in the 20th minute, calmly finishing off a swift counter-attack to put his team ahead. The momentum shifted further in their favor when Sharks defender Liam Mastos received a straight red card in the 40th minute for a reckless challenge, forcing the home side to play with 10 men.
Salami continued to exploit the numerical advantage with clinical precision. He netted his second goal in the 52nd minute, capping off a well-orchestrated team move, before sealing his hat-trick in the 75th minute with a composed finish that left the goalkeeper with no chance.
Operating with poise and creativity in midfield, Salami’s performance was a masterclass in attacking intelligence, control, and execution. His match-winning display not only earned him the match ball but also solidified his growing reputation as one of the most exciting young talents in the league.
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