The Nigeria Fencing Federation (NFF) is gearing up to host the prestigious 23rd African Fencing Championships, scheduled to take place in Lagos from June 25 to June 29, 2025. This marks a significant milestone for Nigeria as it welcomes top fencers from across the continent to compete for continental glory in one of Africa’s premier fencing events.

The championship will be held at the Teslim Balogun Stadium Indoor Sports Hall, a venue equipped with state-of-the-art facilities suitable for fencing competitions. The event is expected to attract athletes, coaches, and officials from over 20 African countries, showcasing the best talents in the disciplines of foil, épée, and sabre for both men and women.

The NFF has been working closely with the African Fencing Confederation (AFC) and the International Fencing Federation (FIE) to ensure the successful organization of the event. Preparations include upgrading local infrastructure, training referees, and hosting pre-championship qualifiers to select the Nigerian team.

Hosting the championships is seen as a strategic move to boost the popularity and development of fencing in Nigeria, a sport that has been growing steadily in the country. It also offers Nigerian athletes the advantage of competing on home soil, which could enhance their performance and medal prospects.

The event will feature individual and team competitions, with winners earning qualification points towards the 2026 World Fencing Championships and the 2028 Olympic Games. This adds an extra layer of competitiveness and prestige to the tournament.

Officials from the NFF have expressed optimism that the championships will not only raise the profile of fencing in Nigeria but also foster greater unity and sportsmanship among African nations. The event is also expected to draw fencing enthusiasts and sports tourists, contributing to Lagos’s economy.