Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Monday, welcomed Mariam Eniola Bolaji, Kwara-born badminton star and Africa’s first badminton medalist at the Olympic or Paralympics at Government House, Ilorin.
Eniola, who was recently ranked World Number Two in the game, was received by His Excellency, Governor AbdulRazaq with an undiluted joy.
Unable to contain his joy, the Governor said, “Your triumph serves as an inspiration to millions of young athletes across the nation, and we are proud to have you represent our state and country.”
The 18-year-old badminton star is one of the many Kwara-born athletes who have benefited from Governor AbdulRazaq’s generosity in sports.
Recently, he sponsored two underage scrabble players to represent the country at the 2024 World Youths Scrabble Championship Sri Lanka.
Commenting on her recent historic feats at the game both as World Number Two and Africa’s first badminton medalist at the Olympic or Paralympics, Governor AbdulRazaq described Eniola as a great ambassador of the State.
“Eniola has been a great ambassador of our state, and we are so proud to identify with her feats,” he said.
The Governor also reiterated his administration’s commitment to continue to offer Eniola Mariam all necessary support as she continues to make the State and Nigeria proud.
“Our government will continue to support the para-badminton talent every step of the way. Once again, congratulations, Eniola!” the Governor said.
The newly constructed world-class sporting facilities by the Governor AbdulRazaq-led administration have received excellent remarks from sports lovers and veterans including former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo.
Receiving the badminton star, the Governor promised to build more sports facilities in the State.
Eniola was accompanied to the meeting by the Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission, Mallam Bolakale Mogaji, who expressed his undiluted gratitude to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his unwavering support for Kwara athletes and sports development in the State.
The emotional and grateful Mariam Eniola Bolaji also extended her gratitude to Governor AbdulRazaq for supporting her career over the years.
She stressed how the Governor’s exemplary leadership in sports and other sectors have contributed to her success. “I am grateful for your words of encouragement and the efforts you’ve put into creating opportunities for athletes like myself,” the badminton star said.
