The Nigeria Fencing Federation (NFF) has reaffirmed its full readiness to host the 23rd edition of the African Fencing Championships, which will be held in Lagos from June 25 to 29, 2025. This major continental tournament is poised to draw elite fencers and officials from across the continent, further solidifying Nigeria’s rising prominence in the world of African fencing.

At a media briefing held Tuesday at the Lagos Fencing Club, the President of the Nigeria Fencing Federation, Adeyinka Samuel, announced the nation’s preparedness and pride in welcoming the prestigious championship to Nigerian soil.

Nigeria Becomes Fourth Sub-Saharan Host of Prestigious Event

This upcoming edition of the African Fencing Championships marks only the fourth time the competition will take place in Sub-Saharan Africa. Previous hosts in the region include Senegal (2002 and 2009) and Mali (2019). Nigeria’s turn to host signals a significant recognition of the country’s growth and commitment to the sport.

“This is more than just a tournament—it is a pivotal moment that reflects our achievements and growing stature within the global fencing community,” Samuel said. “We are proud to stand alongside other great African hosts, and we are confident that this edition will set new standards in excellence.”

Over 200 Athletes from 26 Countries Confirm Participation

According to the NFF, 26 African countries have confirmed their participation, with more than 200 athletes expected to compete in various fencing disciplines. The event will include individual and team competitions in épée, foil, and sabre categories for both men and women.

“We assure our guests—athletes, coaches, and officials—a world-class experience in Lagos,” said Samuel. “This event will not only spotlight top-level fencing talent but also promote cross-cultural interaction, sportsmanship, and unity among African nations.”

Venue: Charterhouse Lagos to Host the Continental Showpiece

The competition will take place at Charterhouse Lagos, an elite academic institution with state-of-the-art sports facilities. Notably, the same venue successfully hosted Nigeria’s first-ever Fencing World Cup event last year, earning praise for its professionalism and organizational excellence.

Angela Hencher, Chief Operating Officer of Charterhouse Lagos, expressed pride in the school’s partnership with Lagos Fencing and its support for the championship. “Charterhouse Lagos is honored to host the 2025 Senior African Fencing Championships. This collaboration complements our mission of delivering a transformative education rooted in British academic standards, character development, and global awareness,” Hencher said.

She added that fencing embodies vital life skills such as mental discipline, strategic decision-making, and perseverance—traits that Charterhouse seeks to instill in its students.

“We are delighted to provide our world-class facilities to Africa’s finest fencing athletes and contribute to the development of the sport across the continent,” Hencher noted.

A Strategic Milestone for Nigeria’s Fencing Ambitions

The decision to host this championship in Lagos signals a strategic milestone in the Nigeria Fencing Federation’s broader agenda to elevate fencing within the country and beyond. In recent years, the federation has intensified efforts to promote the sport through grassroots development programs, international collaborations, and the successful hosting of global events.

Nigeria has seen a steady rise in the popularity and recognition of fencing, once a niche sport, with more clubs opening across the country and young athletes participating in regional and international competitions.

“This championship will act as a catalyst for further growth in Nigerian fencing,” Samuel emphasized. “It will also serve as inspiration for young fencers and underline the fact that Africa can stage international-standard tournaments.”

Nigeria’s Growing Profile in African and Global Sports

The announcement of Nigeria as host of the 2025 championships adds to the country’s expanding profile as a hub for major sporting events. From athletics to basketball and now fencing, Nigeria is positioning itself as a continental sports destination with the infrastructure, talent, and organizational capacity to deliver high-caliber events.

For fencing in particular, hosting the African Championships could create long-lasting impacts such as:

• Boosting local interest and participation in fencing.

• Improving international rankings for Nigerian athletes through exposure to high-level competition.

• Attracting more investment from sponsors and sports development partners.

• Showcasing Nigeria’s capability to organize events that meet international standards.

Final Preparations Underway

With just weeks to go before the tournament kicks off, final preparations are in full swing. The Nigeria Fencing Federation, in collaboration with partners like Charterhouse Lagos and the African Fencing Confederation, is working to ensure seamless logistics, security, athlete accommodation, and media coverage.

Volunteers, referees, and officials are undergoing final training sessions, while marketing campaigns continue to build awareness and anticipation for the event. The Local Organizing Committee has also assured that all health and safety protocols will be fully enforced in line with international best practices.

Conclusion: A Turning Point for African Fencing

The 2025 African Fencing Championships promise to be a historic and transformative event not just for Nigeria but for the entire African fencing community. With more than two dozen countries participating, the event will serve as a powerful celebration of athletic talent, cultural exchange, and continental unity through sport.

As the countdown begins, all eyes turn to Lagos, where Africa’s finest fencers will converge to showcase their skill, resilience, and competitive spirit. And for Nigeria, the tournament represents not only a sporting opportunity but a moment of national pride and continental leadership in the arena of fencing.