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Twelve fencers from Nigeria commenced their training camp on Thursday in preparation for the 2025 African Fencing Championships, set to occur in Lagos from June 25 to 29.
The 12-member Nigerian team is currently practicing at the Lagos Fencing Club in Lekki, under the supervision of Italian coach Riccardo Bardine.
His appointment is part of a strategic four-year collaboration between the Nigerian Fencing Federation and the Italian Fencing Federation, with the goal of fostering the development of the sport in Nigeria through technical guidance and knowledge sharing.
Leading Nigeria's team are the country's highest-ranked fencer, Inkosi Brou, emerging star Peluola Akinbamiro based in the U.S., and local talent Wisdom Okanlawon. According to the Nigeria Fencing Federation, 26 African nations have confirmed their participation, bringing together over 200 athletes.
NFF president Adeyinka Samuel stated, "Our athletes are better prepared than ever. We have concentrated intensely on coaching development, international exposure, and high-performance training camps.
With the home crowd's support, our fencers are ready both mentally and physically to make history."
He added, "Team Nigeria is ready for battle. We've enlisted an international coach from Italy, conducted joint training camps with other African countries, and provided specific support in nutrition, conditioning, and mental readiness. Every athlete knows what's at stake not just winning medals, but inspiring the next generation of Nigerian fencers."
Among the competitors will be 22-year-old Mohamed El-Sayed from Egypt, the reigning world number one in fencing and silver medalist from the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
He will be joined by his younger brother, Mahmoud El-Sayed, the 2025 Junior World Champion and current Junior World No. 1, as part of a strong Egyptian team.
The tournament will be held at Charterhouse Lagos, the same venue that hosted Nigeria's inaugural Fencing World Cup last year.
