Nigeria has reaffirmed its readiness to host the 23rd African Fencing
Championships, set to take place in Lagos from June 25 to 29, 2025. This
marks the fourth time the event will be held in Sub-Saharan Africa,
following previous editions in Senegal (2002 and 2009) and Mali (2019).
Speaking at a well-attended media conference on Tuesday, June 10, 2025,
at the Lagos Fencing Club, President of the Nigeria Fencing Federation,
Adeyinka Samuel, expressed excitement and pride over the upcoming
tournament.
“Today marks a truly historic moment for Nigerian sports, and indeed for
the entire African continent,” Samuel said. “From June 25 to 29, Lagos
will open its doors to Africa’s finest fencing talents as we proudly
host the African Fencing Championships. This is more than just a
competition—it’s a landmark achievement that places Nigeria among the
few Sub-Saharan nations to host this prestigious event.”
Samuel highlighted Nigeria’s growing stature in international fencing,
noting past successes including the African Junior Championships in 2018
and 2022, and the World Cup in 2024. “Nigeria is fast emerging as a hub
for fencing in Africa, and this championship is a testament to our
consistent progress and dedication,” he added.
The tournament will take place at Charterhouse Lagos, the first British
independent school in West Africa. The venue, which successfully hosted
Nigeria’s first Fencing World Cup, boasts a legacy rooted in over 400
years of British academic tradition.
“To the 26 African countries that have confirmed participation, bringing
over 200 athletes, we promise a world-class experience,” Samuel assured.
“Expect top-tier hospitality, seamless organization, and the vibrancy of
Lagos—a city rich in culture, infrastructure, and sportsmanship. Beyond
the competition, we aim to deliver a uniquely Nigerian experience with
cultural showcases and a spirit of unity that defines the pan-African
ideal.”
Angela Hencher, Chief Operating Officer of Charterhouse Lagos, also
expressed enthusiasm about the event and the school’s ongoing
partnership with Lagos Fencing.
“Charterhouse Lagos is proud to host the 2025 Senior African Fencing
Championships,” said Hencher.
“This collaboration aligns with our
mission to provide a transformative education grounded in British
excellence, character development, and global citizenship.”
She added that fencing reflects the school’s core values—Excellence,
Integrity, Courtesy, Service, and Wellbeing. “Fencing demands strategic
thinking, self-discipline, and resilience. We are thrilled to open our
world-class facilities to the continent’s top athletes and contribute to
the elevation of fencing in Nigeria.”
Hencher emphasized that the event extends beyond sport. “It aligns with
our vision of nurturing proactive global citizens. This championship is
not just an event—it’s a celebration of excellence, ambition, and
cross-cultural collaboration. We are honoured, excited, and ready to
support Nigerian fencing on this incredible journey.”
