Fencing Federation presents Commonwealth Championships at Invest Lagos 3.0

The Nigerian Fencing Federation made its mark at Invest Lagos 3.0, one of Africa’s largest investment gatherings, where conversations about the future of the continent took place between government leaders, global investors, policymakers, diplomats and business executives.

READ ALSO: DO OR DIE ON SHOWTIME: Warriors eye last place as knights and rebels prepare for winner-takes-all showdown

Representing the Federation was its Vice President, Ms Rachael Samuel, who brought the voice of sport to a space traditionally dominated by commerce and politics, promoting the 2026 Commonwealth Fencing Championships.

Hosted by the Lagos State Government in partnership with the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC), the summit was designed to attract investment, strengthen international partnerships and accelerate growth in key sectors.

The atmosphere was charged with ambition, as figures such as Lord Jonathan Marland, president of CWEIC; Samantha Cohen, executive director of CWEIC; Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; and Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, lent their voices to the dialogue.

For the Nigerian Fencing Federation, this was not just another high-level event. It was an opportunity to integrate the sport into the broader narrative of development and investment, laying the foundations for the next Commonwealth Fencing Championships, a historic first for Lagos and a defining moment for Africa.

In the discussion hallways, topics emerged that went far beyond the track: the importance of strategic partnerships and sponsorships to sustain the Games; the need for sports infrastructure that leaves a lasting legacy; the promise of grassroots opportunities to inspire young fencers from all communities; the drive to empower women and elevate their leadership in sport; and the innovative introduction of disability fencing at a global competition in Africa, in partnership with World Ability Sport, ensuring inclusion and accessibility for all.

As Lagos prepares to welcome the Commonwealth Fencing Championships, these conversations underline the transformative power of sport, not just as a competition, but as a catalyst for development, inclusion and social change.

Because fencing, like all sports, is not limited to the court. Thrives on collaboration, vision, and a willingness to be present where opportunities are created.