Nigeria to host African Fencing tourney with athletes from 26 nations
Over 200 athletes from 26 countries are expected to arrive in Nigeria for the 23rd edition of the African Fencing Championships, scheduled to take place from Wednesday, June 25 to Sunday, June 29, 2025, at Charterhouse Lagos. This marks the first time Nigeria will host the prestigious continental event. It will also be the country’s […]
Over 200 athletes from 26 countries are expected to arrive in Nigeria for the 23rd edition of the African Fencing Championships, scheduled to take place from Wednesday, June 25 to Sunday, June 29, 2025, at Charterhouse Lagos.
This marks the first time Nigeria will host the prestigious continental event. It will also be the country’s fourth major fencing tournament, following successful outings at the African Junior Championships in 2018 and 2022, and the World Cup in 2024.
Speaking at a press briefing ahead of the tournament, President of the Nigerian Fencing Federation (NFF), Adeyinka Samuel, highlighted the significance of the event for Nigeria’s growing fencing community.
“This championship reinforces Nigeria’s status as an emerging force in African fencing. Hosting it not only elevates our profile but also inspires the next generation of fencers,” Samuel said.
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He also spotlighted top international athletes expected at the tournament, including Senior World No. 1 and 2024 Olympic bronze medalist Mohamed El-Sayed, and his brother, Mahmoud El-Sayed, Junior World No. 1 and reigning 2025 Junior World Champion.
“We’ll also witness fierce competition from the likes of 2024 Olympic silver medalist Fares Ferjani and former World Champion Ndolo Alexandra. Their participation speaks volumes about the quality and competitiveness of this year’s championship,” he added.
Samuel expressed optimism that Nigeria could end its long-standing medal drought at the African Championships, citing the strength of the current squad which features Inkosi Brou, grandson of the late Dora Akunyili, who is currently ranked 23rd in the world.
“While Nigeria has yet to medal at the African Fencing Championships, I stand before you brimming with optimism. Our athletes are more prepared than ever before. We have intensely focused on coach development, international exposure, and high-performance training camps. With the roar of the home crowd behind them, our fencers are mentally and physically ready to rewrite history,” he said.
Charterhouse Lagos, the tournament venue, Chief Operating Officer, Angela Hencher, expressed pride in hosting the championship, saying it embodies their commitment to the sport.
“This event aligns with our mission to foster global citizenship through sport. It’s not just about competition, it’s about community, excellence, and cross-cultural collaboration,” she said.