Sports

Eniola Sets record In Para-Badminton

Published

4 years ago

May 17, 2021

The Nigeria Para-Badminton player, Bolaji Eniola put behind the revival personal tragedy of losing her coach by winning a gold medal at the 2021 Spanish Para-Badminton International competition in Cartagena, Spain over the weekend.

The Nigerian finished in first position to win gold in SL3 female Series.

This feat not only qualified her for the Para Badminton tournament in Japan later in October, but brightened the prospect of winning the title at the world stage .It is also a confirmation of the potentials of para Badminton in Nigeria if given required supports and attention.

Eniola is a protégé of late Coach Bello Rafiu Oyebanji who died in an accident while preparing for the championship.

This is her first time of playing in international tournaments made possible by Minister of Youth and Sports Development Mr Sunday Dare who single handedly funded her trip. she also set another record by becoming the 1st African athlete to win Gold in the international championship.

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Sports

Dr. Andiir Solomon Atoo Honored with SWAN Diamond Jubilee Award for Outstanding Contributions to Sports

Published

1 hour ago

November 1, 2025

The Gleamer

Cyril Ogar

Benue-born sports administrator and philanthropist, Dr. Andiir Solomon Atoo, has expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) for recognizing his contribution to sports development in Benue State and Nigeria at large.

Dr. Atoo, who serves as President of Flight Sports Nigeria Limited and Founder of Flight Football Club, Gboko, received the honour during the association’s Diamond Jubilee Celebration in Abuja.

Speaking after receiving the prestigious award, Dr. Atoo described the recognition as a “special motivation and encouragement” to continue contributing to sports growth across the country.

“I’m very happy and honoured. This award means a lot to me because it serves as motivation and encouragement. It’s something very special and not something I take lightly,” he said.

A respected sports administrator, CEO, and humanitarian, Dr. Atoo has built a sterling reputation for his commitment to nurturing young talents and promoting grassroots sports in Benue State.

Through Flight Sports Nigeria Limited, which oversees a range of sporting disciplines including football, volleyball, basketball, lawn tennis, and para sports, he has created opportunities for young athletes to develop their potential and pursue professional careers.

Under his leadership, Flight Football Club Gboko has become a platform for discovering and grooming promising footballers who have gone on to make their mark both locally and internationally. Beyond football, his investment in volleyball, lawn tennis, para sports, and basketball has revitalized interest and participation in these disciplines within Benue and beyond.

Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Atoo noted that his involvement in sports began purely out of passion but has now grown into a lifelong mission.

“It all started as a passion, but over time, it has become part of me — a culture,” he stated. “This recognition only drives me to do more for the progress of our youth and the development of sports in Benue State and Nigeria.”

He also extended his appreciation to sports journalists in the state and across Nigeria for their continuous support and constructive criticism, noting that their work plays a vital role in shaping sports administration and inspiring excellence.
Looking ahead, Dr. Atoo reaffirmed his dedication to empowering young athletes and improving sports structures in the region.

> “Going forward, we’re going to achieve great things in Benue. My message to sports lovers, administrators, and players is simple — stay dedicated, keep believing, and together we can make sports a major unifying force in our state and beyond,” he concluded.

The recognition by SWAN adds to Dr. Atoo’s growing list of honours as a sports leader, CEO, and philanthropist whose initiatives continue to drive youth empowerment and sports development across multiple disciplines in Benue State and Nigeria.

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