Nigeria is set to host the 2025 African Fencing Championships from June 25 to 29 in Lagos, with a 12-member team currently in training.

The Nigerian team is training at the Lagos Fencing Club in Lekki, led by Italian coach Riccardo Bardine, as part of a partnership with the Italian Fencing Federation.

This championship is crucial for Nigeria, as the country aims to enhance its bid for the 2026 Olympic Games with 12 athletes representing the nation.

NFF President Olayinka Samuel highlighted the event's significance, noting it as an opportunity for Nigerian fencers to compete against top talent from across Africa.

The championships will see participation from 26 African countries and over 200 athletes, promising a competitive atmosphere in Lagos.

The event will take place at Charterhouse Lagos, a prestigious venue known for hosting Nigeria's first Fencing World Cup last year.

Angela Hencher, Chief Operating Officer of Charterhouse Lagos, expressed pride in hosting the championships, aligning with the school's mission of excellence.

Hencher emphasized that the event reflects values of excellence and character development, aiming to elevate fencing in Nigeria.

Notable competitors will include Egypt's Mohamed El-Sayed, the world number one and silver medalist at the Paris 2024 Olympics, alongside his brother Mahmoud El-Sayed, the 2025 Junior World Champion.

Key athletes on the Nigerian team include top-ranked fencer Inkosi Brou, U.S.-based rising star Peluola Akinbamiro, and local talent Wisdom Okanlawon.

Samuel emphasized the importance of support from the home crowd and the team's readiness to inspire future generations of Nigerian fencers.

NFF President Samuel also noted that the team's preparation includes a focus on coaching development, international exposure, and high-performance training.