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.”
