The Nigerian team launched the squad for the 23rd African fence championship

The Nigerian transportation federation has announced a squad of 12 people for the 23rd African fence championship, which is scheduled to take place at Lagos Charterhouse from 25 to 29 June 2025.

This only marks the third time the continental tournament will be held in the African Sub-Sahara, following the previous edition in Senegal (2002) and Mali (2009, 2019).

Leading the Nigerian team is the US -based Brou incotional, the first Nigerian fencing player to win a medal at international events.

Brou, who has just won bronze at the 2025 African Junior Championship in Angola, brings valuable experiences for the squad despite only 17 years old.

He has competed in several international tournaments this year as part of his journey to qualifications for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.

In particular, he is the grandson of the late Director General Nafdac, Prof. Dora Akunyili.

Also read: Nigeria Names Squad for Junior Fence Championship in China

Joining Bru is Oluwafolayemi Akinyosoye based in the UK, along with homemade talents including Wisdom Okanlawon; Mahatir and Mahadi Idonlesit’s siblings, Olumuyiwa IgE, Egbesemirirone, Alex Chizim Aninyei, and Babade Adegbola.

The female squad featured the Akinbamiro, Somto Eribenne, Sara Idongesite, and Adebodunrin Thomas.

The Nigerian team will compete in individual events and teams in three fence disciplines: foil, epee, and sword.

National coach Ibrahim Alogba expressed confidence in young teams, noting their potential to surprise more experienced opponents. “Our team is the youngest in terms of age and experience, which reduces pressure on them. This can benefit us. We may still be young, but we are not intimidated by notes or reputations. We are ready to solve the Nigerian medal drought in this tournament,” he said.

Italian coach Riccardo Bardin, who has trained the team since his arrival a week ago, also praised the potential of athletes but urged patience when they continued to grow.

In addition to the host countries Nigeria, other participating countries including Tunisia, Egypt, Morocco, Kenya, Republic of Benin, Côte D’Voire, Algeria, Senegal, Mauritius, Angola, Rwanda, Niger, South Africa, Guinea, Libya, Burkina Faso, and Cape Voer. This tournament will feature 12 events consisting of six individual events and six teams in Foil, Epee, and Saber.