The Nigeria Fencing Federation has continued its historic journey with the unveiling of the official logo and mascot for the 2026 Senior Commonwealth Fencing Championships — the first edition of the event to be staged in Africa. The ceremony was held on Tuesday, June 16, at Rugby School, Lagos.
Having successfully hosted two major international tournaments in the past two years — the International Fencing Federation (FIE)-sanctioned World Cup and the African Championships — Nigeria now joins South Africa as the only African nations to stage the Commonwealth Championships. South Africa previously hosted the junior edition in 2022.
The quadrennial Commonwealth Championships, last hosted in England at the University of East London (UEL) Sportsdock, will berth in Lagos from August 9 to 14, with top fencing squads from across the Commonwealth competing for honours and glory.
Speaking at the unveiling, President of the Nigeria Fencing Federation, Adeyinka Samuel, described the hosting rights as a proud moment for Nigerian sport, noting that Nigeria won the bid ahead of Australia. He emphasized that the achievement reflects the remarkable growth of fencing in the country.
More Read
“Today is a proud moment for Nigerian sport as we officially launch the 2026 Commonwealth Fencing Championships, a historic event that will bring the Commonwealth fencing family to Nigeria for the very first time. This achievement reflects the remarkable growth of fencing in our country and the confidence that the international sporting community has placed in Nigeria’s ability to host a world-class championship.”
“This championship is about much more than medals. It is about creating opportunities, inspiring young people, promoting international friendship, and showcasing the very best of Nigeria to the world,” Samuel said.
He expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Government, the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), the Commonwealth Fencing Federation, World Abilitysport, sponsors, partners, and supporters whose commitment made the hosting rights possible.
Samuel added that the tournament would leave a lasting legacy by introducing thousands of young Nigerians to fencing, developing coaches and officials, and creating pathways for education, leadership, and international competition.
Vice President of the Nigeria Fencing Federation, Rachael Samuel, described the press conference as the official kick-off of preparations for the 2026 Championships.
“We are here to celebrate a significant achievement for Nigerian sport. The awarding of the 2026 Commonwealth Fencing Championships to Nigeria is a recognition of the progress we have made as a federation and as a nation. It reflects the confidence that the international fencing community has in our ability to host a world-class event and deliver an unforgettable experience for athletes and visitors from across the Commonwealth.”
“This championship is not simply about hosting a competition. It is about creating opportunities for young people, growing the sport of fencing across Nigeria and Africa, promoting cultural exchange, and using sport as a tool for education, inclusion, and development,” she said.
She further highlighted the importance of grassroots programmes, school initiatives, coach development pathways, and partnerships with organisations such as Reach Africa, UNICEF, World Abilitysport, The Future of Fencing, and the International Fencing Federation.
According to her, these efforts will ensure sustainable growth for fencing in Nigeria while showcasing the country’s hospitality, vibrant culture, and organisational capacity.
NOC’s Emmanuel Nweri commended the federation’s visible progress over the past five years and pledged continued support in its quest for recognition by the National Sports Commission (NSC).
Representing the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC) Director General, Lekan Fatodu, Technical Director Ifeoluwa Ogunlaja reaffirmed the state’s commitment to supporting the federation and strengthening Lagos’ status as Africa’s sports hub.
Dr. Joy Isa, Director of Marketing and Admissions at Rugby School, Lagos, emphasized that hosting the tournament aligns with the school’s vision of moulding well-rounded students through sports. She assured that the school is ready to welcome athletes and visitors during the event.
The Championships will run from August 9 to 14, preceded by para fencing events on August 4, along with clinics for officials supported by World Abilitysport.
© Bold Sports Media. All rights reserved. If sharing, kindly credit Bold Sports as the source and include a link to the original post. Unauthorised use is prohibited.
