The Nigeria Fencing Federation (NFF) has unveiled a 12-member para fencing squad for the 2026 Commonwealth Fencing Championships, www.aclsports.com reports.
The Championships will take place from August 9 to 14 at Rugby School Nigeria, Atlantic City, Victoria Island, Lagos, marking the first time the competition will be held in Nigeria and the first senior fencing event to be staged in Africa.
Nigeria’s squad comprises six men and six women who will compete in the para events of the Championships, with all 12 athletes set to make their debut appearances at the tournament.
Representing the men’s team are Oduneye Opeoluwa, Adibe Bright, Owolabi Daniel, Ajani Idowu, Adeniji Michael and Owoyele Damilola, while the women’s squad includes Obilor Chidinma, Rahamon Abiola, Iorguna Joy, Ezeamwafor Esther, Otun Joyce and Kumuyi Itunu.
Ahead of the Championships, World Abilitysport, in collaboration with the Commonwealth Fencing Federation and the Nigeria Fencing Federation, will host the 2026 Wheelchair Fencing Academy (ENABLE Academy) in Lagos from August 5 to 7.
The three-day programme will focus on athlete development, coaching techniques, classification and competition rules, while aspiring referees will also benefit from a dedicated education seminar. Sessions will be led by World Para Fencing Coaching Representative Ivan Schwantes.
World Abilitysport Acting Chief Executive Officer Harry Cootes said the Academy continues to play an important role in expanding opportunities for athletes and coaches in emerging fencing nations.
“A driving force behind our work is to ensure that fencing is open to as many people with disabilities as possible. The Wheelchair Fencing Academy, now entering its fifth year, has provided a platform for many athletes and coaches in new countries, and we hope to achieve the same impact with this edition, being held in the African region for the first time.”
Following the Academy, participants from across the Commonwealth will compete in individual and team events in the foil and epee disciplines during the Championships.
