In a groundbreaking moment for sports in Africa, Nigeria has been awarded the hosting rights for the 2026 Commonwealth Fencing Championships. The announcement was made by the Commonwealth Fencing Federation (CFF) after Nigeria’s bid outshone Australia’s, marking a significant milestone for the country’s fencing community.
The decision came on March 27, 2025, when the CFF’s Board ratified the outcome. CFF President Marie-France Dufour, in her official statement, praised Nigeria’s potential but also acknowledged areas for improvement in the bid. The Nigerian Fencing Federation (NFF) must address these details as it gears up for this prestigious event.
Adeyinka Samuel, NFF President, expressed immense pride, attributing this success to Nigeria’s stellar performance in hosting the 2024 Fencing World Cup. “This win symbolizes the world’s recognition of Nigeria’s capacity to deliver world-class sporting events,” Samuel stated.
The event is expected to serve as a major boost for fencing in Nigeria, inspiring young athletes and creating opportunities for local development. Ahead of the Championships, Nigeria will also host the 2025 African Senior Championships and World Cup as test events to perfect its organizational capabilities.
Public and private sector support will be crucial in ensuring the success of the 2026 Championships. With this remarkable achievement, Nigeria is poised to cement its position as a leader in African sports and a key player on the global stage.
