2026 Commonwealth Federation Fencing Championships Kicks off in Lagos Today
The 2026 Commonwealth Federation Fencing Championships officially commenced in Lagos today, marking the first time the prestigious Senior Championships are being hosted on African soil. With delegations from 20 nations
The 2026 Commonwealth Federation Fencing Championships began today in Lagos, marking the inaugural Senior Championships hosted on African soil. Twenty nations are represented by delegations at the Victoria Island venue in Lagos. Rugby School Nigeria hosted the event for six days. The Commonwealth Fencing Federation's President, Marie-France Dufour, praised Nigeria's preparations, noting the nation surpassed Australia in hosting credentials.
Nigeria Fencing Federation President, Adeyinka Samuel, described the tournament as historic, fulfilling a long-held dream. Samuel's team aims to provide valuable competition experience, with a particular focus on Olympic qualification. Local Organising Committee member Olaitan Ogunbiyi assured a smooth tournament. Nigerian athletes, including Folayemi Akinyosoye and Adebodunrin Thomas, expressed their determination to perform well.
The competition includes Senior, U-23, Veteran, and Wheelchair categories, with new debut events in U-23 and Wheelchair divisions. Over 20 countries, including Nigeria, England, South Africa, and others, will compete across these categories, signaling fencing's growing presence in Africa and Nigeria's enhanced global standing.
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