The 2026 Commonwealth Federation Fencing Championships officially commenced in Lagos today, marking the first time the prestigious Senior Championships are being hosted on African soil. Speaking at the opening, President of the Commonwealth Fencing Federation, Marie-France Dufour, commended Nigeria’s preparations and the enthusiasm of its athletes. Dufour expressed confidence that the event would boost the popularity of fencing across Africa and inspire greater participation. President of the Nigeria Fencing Federation, Adeyinka Samuel, described the tournament as historic and the fulfillment of a long-held dream. The 2026 Commonwealth Federation Fencing Championships promise to be a landmark event, showcasing the growth of fencing in Africa and reinforcing Nigeria’s place on the global sporting stage.