Nigeria poised to make history hosting, competing at African fencing championship

Nigeria is making history this week as it hosts the 23rd African Fencing Championship in Lagos, running from June 25 to 29.

This marks the first time the prestigious continental event has been held on Nigerian soil, a significant milestone for the sport in the country.

To mark the occasion, Nigeria has unveiled a 12-member squad, comprising eight male and four female athletes, a blend of homegrown talent and international stars.

Among the most anticipated competitors is 17-year-old U.S.-based fencer Inkosi Brou, who holds the distinction of being Nigeria’s first international fencing medalist.

Currently ranked 23rd in the world in men’s sabre, Brou recently secured a bronze at the 2025 African Junior Championships in Angola.

He is joined on the men’s roster by UK-based Oluwafolayemi Akinyosoye, along with Wisdom Okanlawon, Mahatir Idongesit, Mahadi Idongesit, Olumuyiwa Ige, Oritsematosan Egbesemirone, Alex Chizim Aninyei, and Babade Adegbola.

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The women’s team includes U.S.-based Peluola Akinbamiro, who is set to compete at home for the first time, alongside Somto Eribenne, Sara Idongesit, and Adeboduhrin Thomas.

The championship will take place at Charterhouse Lagos, with Nigerian athletes competing across all weapon categories—foil, epee, and sabre—in both individual and team events.

To prepare the team, the Nigeria Fencing Federation organized an intensive two-week training camp under the guidance of Italian coach Riccardo Bardine, a strategic move to enhance the team’s performance and technical skills.

Adeyinka Samuel, President of the Nigeria Fencing Federation, expressed strong confidence in the team’s readiness, emphasizing the importance of this event for the sport’s growth.

“This is a turning point for Nigerian fencing. Hosting the championship and fielding a capable team is proof that the sport is gaining momentum locally,” Samuel stated.

The African Fencing Championship is expected to attract top competitors from across the continent, solidifying its place as one of the biggest sporting events in Nigeria this year.