Africa’s first Paralympic medalist in badminton, Eniola Bolaji, has expressed her determination to achieve greater success at the Los Angeles 2028 Games as the Badminton Confederation Africa launched the groundbreaking “Road to LA 2028” program in Abuja on Sunday.
The initiative, which brought together key stakeholders from across the continent, with Nigeria leading the charge as host, is aimed at securing Olympic and Paralympic success for African athletes at the 2028 Los Angeles Games and emphasises early preparation, resource mobilisation, and talent development.
“Winning bronze in Paris was a proud moment, but it also motivated me to aim higher,” Bolaji, who won a bronze medal at the 2024 Paralympics said.
“This program gives us the tools we need to succeed. With the right training, resources, and support, I’m confident I can bring home gold in Los Angeles.”
The program reflects a united commitment to rewriting Africa’s badminton story on the global stage and the deputy president of the BCA, Kingston Mulenga, explained the unique nature of the initiative.
“In Africa, we rarely plan four years for the Olympics due to challenges like funding and resources. Nigeria’s leadership in hosting and championing this program is groundbreaking. This initiative offers a roadmap for other African nations to emulate, ensuring that our athletes are prepared to compete at the highest level.”
President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria and a BCA Council member, Francis Orbih, reflected on the inspiration behind the program.
“Eniola Bolaji’s bronze medal at Paris 2024 was a watershed moment for African badminton. It showed that with the right preparation and support, Africa can succeed on the global stage. This program is about sustaining and surpassing that success. Starting early and pooling resources are critical to achieving our goals.”
“Transforming African badminton requires a collective effort. With support from the government, corporate sponsors, and individuals, I believe we can make Africa a global badminton powerhouse. Success attracts more success, and now is the time to invest in our athletes and their future.”
President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, Habu Gumel, also stressed the value of starting preparations well ahead of the Olympics.
“To win at the Olympics, you need years of consistent training, planning, and investment. The BCA’s initiative sets a powerful example for other sports federations. The Nigeria Olympic Committee will do everything possible to support this program with scholarships and resources to help our athletes excel.”
Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, reaffirmed the government’s support, “This initiative aligns perfectly with our vision to elevate Nigerian and African sports. The achievements in Paris 2024 proved that we have the talent; now, we must provide the infrastructure and funding to turn potential into podium finishes. We are committed to creating an enabling environment for success.”
Team Nigeria captain and two-time Olympian Anuoluwapo Opeyori spoke about the program’s significance: “This initiative is a game-changer. It’s not just about medals; it’s about inspiring athletes to perform at their best. With consistent training, mentorship, and global exposure, we can raise the bar for African badminton.”
Spanish Dina Abouzeid Sarinena, an international coach for BCA and BFN, reiterated the importance of preparation: “We prepared for one year before Paris 2024, but now we have four years. That gives us the opportunity to fine-tune techniques, improve tactics, and create an ideal environment for success. This program is a golden opportunity for African athletes to compete at par with their global counterparts.”
