The Commonwealth Fencing Federation (CFF) has formally awarded Nigeria the hosting rights for the 2026 Commonwealth Fencing Championships, making it the first sub-Saharan nation to stage the tournament.
The decision was made after a majority vote by the CFF board, following a review of the technical committee’s report. Nigeria had initially been given provisional hosting rights, pending the addressing of certain shortcomings in their bid.
The CFF praised Nigeria’s efforts in hosting the Junior Epee World Cup in Lagos last December, which demonstrated the country’s capability to host world-class events.
Adeyinka Samuel, President of the Nigeria Fencing Federation, expressed his delight at the decision, saying, “We bid for the hosting rights alongside Australia, and nobody ever gave us a chance to win. But after observing us host the Fencing World Cup in 2024, the CFF was convinced that we are ready to host any world-class tournament.”
Samuel acknowledged the support of individuals, Charter House Lagos, and his board members, and appealed for more support from the public and private sectors to develop the sport.
Nigeria will use the African Senior Championships and the World Cup as test events to prepare for the 2026 Commonwealth Fencing Championships.
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