Nigeria Fencing Federation’s Bold Strides in Developing Fencing

Fencing, traditionally seen as a niche sport, is steadily gaining traction in Nigeria thanks to the Nigeria Fencing Federation’s (NFF) concerted efforts. Under the leadership of Adeyinka Samuel, the NFF has taken bold steps to ensure that Nigeria becomes a force to reckon with in international fencing while fostering local participation and development. Through strategic partnerships, hosting international events, grassroots initiatives, and overcoming resource challenges, the NFF is reshaping the sport’s narrative in the country.

Nigerian Fencers fighting at a tournament

International Collaborations

The NFF’s recent agreement with the Federazione Italiana Scherma (FIS) is a monumental step in enhancing the technical and professional capacity of Nigerian fencing. Signed during the International Fencing Federation Congress in Uzbekistan, the four-year partnership will see Italian experts provide training for Nigerian coaches, referees, and officials. This collaboration is expected to bridge technical gaps and bring the expertise needed to develop world-class athletes.

NFF President Adeyinka Samuel described the agreement as pivotal for the sport’s growth, stating, “This partnership will add immense value by transferring advanced technical skills to those managing and training our athletes.” This relationship underscores the NFF’s commitment to building capacity and establishing Nigeria as a key player in global fencing.

Nigeria is on track to make history by hosting the Junior Men’s Epee World Cup in December 2024 at Charterhouse Lagos. This marks the first time Sub-Saharan Africa will host such a high-profile fencing event. The tournament will bring together elite fencing nations, including the United States, Hong Kong, and Egypt, alongside Nigeria’s rising stars like Shemilore Fashola and Wisdom Okanlawon. The event offers local fencers the opportunity to compete on the global stage and earn valuable ranking points for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic qualifiers

The federation’s hosting rights extend beyond 2024. Between 2024 and 2026, Nigeria will stage five international fencing events, including three Junior World Cups and the Senior African Championship in 2025. 

These tournaments are expected to elevate Nigeria’s standing in the sport and attract global attention.

Grassroots Development

Grassroots engagement remains a cornerstone of the NFF’s strategy. Recognizing the need to build a pipeline of talent, the federation is creating avenues for young athletes to discover and nurture their fencing skills. Collaborations with international bodies, like FIS, ensure that Nigerian athletes and coaches are exposed to global best practices.

In addition to skill development, grassroots initiatives focus on fostering awareness about fencing in schools and local communities. These efforts are slowly but surely embedding the sport into Nigeria’s athletic culture.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the progress, the NFF faces hurdles, including limited funding and a lack of widespread public awareness. While  hosting international events, paired with grassroots programs, is expected to build public interest and attract sponsors who can help sustain the sport’s growth, it seems like it isn’t enough as there is a call for greater corporate sponsorship and individual support to overcome these obstacles.

The economic and social benefits of fencing’s expansion in Nigeria cannot be overstated. Hosting international events brings tourism revenue and fosters cultural exchange, while local tournaments provide young Nigerians with opportunities to build discipline, leadership, and international exposure.

The NFF’s multi-pronged approach is yielding promising results, with Nigeria emerging as a significant player in the international fencing scene. The federation’s ability to balance grassroots development with high-level international engagement ensures that fencing has a solid foundation in Nigeria.

With strategic collaborations, infrastructure improvements, and world-class events on the horizon, the NFF is paving the way for a vibrant fencing culture. The federation’s efforts are not just growing the sport but also showcasing Nigeria’s potential to excel in disciplines beyond traditional sports.

Fencing in Nigeria is poised for a golden era, thanks to the visionary leadership and relentless drive of the Nigeria Fencing Federation.