NSC Shows Strong Support for Nigerian Fencing

The National Sports Commission has promised full support for fencing after Nigeria's strong showing at the 2026 Commonwealth Fencing Championships. This event took place at Rugby School Nigeria in Eko Atlantic City, Lagos.

The six-day competition was the first senior fencing event ever held in Africa. Athletes from over 20 countries took part.

India led the medal table, but Nigeria finished a proud fourth overall. This made Nigeria the highest-ranked African nation in the tournament.

The Director General of the NSC, Bukola Olopade, attended the closing ceremony as a special guest. He expressed excitement about the progress made by Nigerian fencers.

He praised the athletes for their bravery and skill. He pointed out that their success shows Nigeria's sporting excellence goes beyond football.

"I’m thrilled and intrigued because we have been feeling sad about the Super Falcons not qualifying for the World Cup. But this shows that beyond football, Nigerians are thriving in other sports, organizing competitions, and producing champions. We must give respect and credence to those sports," Olopade said.

He emphasized that fencing, being an Olympic sport, deserves more recognition and investment. Many of Nigeria's medal winners were under 20, which he said shows the sport's potential to create future champions.

Olopade backed his words with action by announcing a $10,000 quarterly grant for Oghenegaren Osiovwa-Thompson, Nigeria's first gold medallist at the championships. He will also be placed in Category A of the NSC's high-performance athletes' program.

Other rewards include $5,000 for gold medallists, $2,000 for silver medallists, and $1,000 for bronze medallists.

Olopade explained that his support came after ongoing advocacy from fencing officials. They have consistently shown the sport's growth.

"President of Nigeria Fencing Federation, Adeyinka Samuel, kept on showing me the pathways to success in fencing, kept pushing, kept trying. Eventually, I said, okay, the National Sports Commission will support you," he remarked.

He wrapped up by praising the federation, athletes, coaches, officials, sponsors, and participating nations. He noted that the championships proved Nigeria's ability to host world-class sporting events.

Samuel, who was also elected President of the Commonwealth Fencing Federation, thanked the NSC leadership under Chairman Shehu Dikko and Director General Olopade for believing in the sport. He promised to keep working hard to ensure Nigeria qualifies for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games in the United States.